“You see,” I continued, my voice steady and resonant, “life is far too short to spend it seeking approval from those who will never give it. I’ve worked hard for everything I have, and I won’t let anyone belittle that—not even my husband.”

Margaret opened her mouth to interject, but I held up a hand. “Not now, Margaret. I think it’s clear that I’ve listened enough. This evening was supposed to be a celebration, and instead, it’s turned into yet another reminder of how little I’m valued in this family.”

Mark finally found his voice, albeit a shaky one. “Emily, you can’t just—”“I can,” I interrupted, my tone firm but not angry. “I can do whatever I choose. And right now, I choose to walk away from this toxic cycle of judgment and belittlement.”