The rest of the vacation was different. They reconnected, enjoying each other’s company without the burden of serving others. Tess made it clear that if things ever returned to the old way, she’d leave—no note, no explanation.

A year later, Tess and Matt’s dynamic had shifted. Now, before committing to family events, Matt always checked in with Tess first. No more chore charts, no more unsaid expectations. Tess had chosen herself, and the family learned to respect that.