“Mom, I’ve respected them for years, but respect isn’t one-sided. They’ve humiliated our family repeatedly and every time you told me to endure it for harmony, does that mean they can trample on us and we have to smile? Seven years ago, when we bought a car, you were happy, but one comment from Aunt Virginia made you sulk for days. Five years ago, Dad gave you a coat and after Aunt Madison’s sarcastic remarks, you never wore it. Last year, during renovations, Aunt Virginia spilled paint and didn’t apologize, leaving Dad cleaning for ages, almost unable to stand straight. Have you forgotten all this?”
My dad started to speak. My mom’s eyes turned a little red and she looked away.
Virginia sneered sharply, “Fine! Everything we say is wrong. Now that your son is successful, we’re not even allowed to speak?”
Madison said sarcastically while packing, “Yes, we’re poor relatives and can’t keep up with you. If your standards are too high, we won’t come again!”
They both stood up, chairs scraping loudly. Virginia went to the door, then forced a smile at my parents. “Brother, sister-in-law, you’ve raised a great son. So capable. Our useless son can’t compare at all.”