**Diary Entry – A Lesson in Boundaries**
From the start, I knew my husband’s family would never truly welcome me. The moment Oliver and I married, his sister Charlotte made it clear I didn’t belong. I tried my best—smoothed things over, stayed helpful—but it was like talking to a brick wall.
I work at a GP surgery, handling appointments and referrals. More than once, I’ve helped his family—skipping queues, arranging last-minute slots, saving them hundreds on private care. Some said thanks; others didn’t. I never minded. That’s what family does, right?
Charlotte, though—she took full advantage. Knowing I had a car, she’d ring at 7 AM on a Sunday: *”Emily, could you run me to the other side of London? It’s urgent.”* Never mind if I was asleep or had plans. Her own husband drove, but somehow, I became her personal chauffeur.
She’d drag Oliver into her dramas too. One call, and he’d drop everything. I’d ask him to set boundaries, but he’d just say, *”You wouldn’t understand—you’re an only child.”* As if blood excused everything.
Family gatherings were another trial. Everyone exchanged token gifts—except me. I’d bring something for each of them, but it was like I was invisible. As if my time, petrol, and patience meant nothing.
Two years ago, Charlotte needed surgery. I pulled every favour—got her the best NHS consultant, even waived fees. Not for praise, but when she didn’t so much as say *”ta,”* it stung. Especially knowing her own mother couldn’t have managed half of it.
Then *I* ended up in hospital. Emergency procedure. Did his family check on me? Not a soul. Charlotte rang—not to ask how I was, but to demand some paperwork. Knew I was mid-recovery, still called. Couldn’t wait, couldn’t ask someone else. That’s what *”family”* meant to them.
Months later, at his uncle’s birthday, Charlotte walked out the second I arrived. A year of silence over a *form.* A year.
I’m done being convenient. Done being their free service. I’ve no relatives left—but I won’t be their doormat anymore. Enough is enough.
**Lesson learned:** Blood doesn’t make family—respect does. And I owe none to those who give none in return.