8th June 2024
Ive been married for a decade now, sharing a two-bedroom flat in Manchester with my wife. Were still working our way through the mortgage repayments. We havent yet found the courage to start a family wed both prefer to feel a bit more settled first. I have a younger brother, David. Hes also married; he and his wife, Jessica, live in a tiny one-bedroom flat in Birmingham. David juggles two full-time jobs and occasionally picks up extra work just to make ends meet, especially since Jessica doesnt work. Instead, she seems to see childbearing as a sort of competitive sport. They already have three kids, shes pregnant with their fourth, and apparently a fifth is already in her plans.
On top of all that, theyve taken out a number of loans for appliances and other household bits. My wife and I have lent a hand more times than I can count sometimes with cash, sometimes with groceries. Now and then, Jessica doesnt even bother to ask but rather demands help, as if its her right.
It falls to us to draw a line and say No when she gets too cheeky. Naturally, David and Jessica sulk for a spell, but as sure as rain in April, they eventually come round again with another favour to ask.
The other day, Jessica really outdid herself: You and your wife havent got kids, and soon well have four. It only makes sense for you to let us move into your flat, she announced, just like that.
I stared at her, utterly baffled. And where exactly do you expect us to go, Jessica? Into your one-bedroom in Birmingham?
She replied, as matter-of-fact as could be, No, youll let some tenants in there. You and your wife can rent elsewhere. She looked at me expectantly, as though her plan was completely reasonable. So, when can you move out?
I could barely believe her nerve. You know what, Jessica? I think you need to see a doctor. Now kindly get out of our home.
Her response stunned me; she threatened, Fine, Ill lose this child because of you, and that will be on your conscience. With that, she stormed off.
And so it happened. That very same day, without even letting David know, she snuck out and ended her pregnancy at three months gone.
At two in the morning, David showed up at our flat, spitting with rage and laying every ounce of blame at my feet. Before I could say much, my wife stepped in and managed to calm him down, while I explained what had happened. We had to give him a proper wake-up call quite literally. I had to stick his head under the cold tap to make him see sense before finally sending him back home.
Since that night, I havent heard from David. I suppose Ive lost my brother, perhaps for good.
If Ive learnt anything, its that family loyalty has its limits. Standing up for your own happiness and sanity, especially when someone else tries to take advantage, is not only fair it might be necessary.












