I told myself it was fine. Maybe they were busy, or didn’t realize how serious things were.

When I recovered, I went home. My SIL opened the door, eyes wide, and froze in the doorway. Then, as if I were a stranger, she grabbed her phone and threatened to call the police because I wasn’t welcome there anymore.

I stood frozen, unable to speak. She said that she could prove I was a stranger in this house. Just because I hadn’t paid rent or covered household expenses recently, she said I had no right to be there.

I stood frozen, unable to speak. She said that she could prove I was a stranger in this house. Just because I hadn’t paid rent or covered household expenses recently, she said I had no right to be there.

Now, my brother and SIL had a big fight because my brother claims that kicking me out is over the line. I am afraid that their marriage might be in jeopardy because of me, I feel so guilty.

What should I do? Am I really a stranger now? Is money the only thing that defines whether you’re “family”?