Growing up, I—Olivia—always felt like an outsider in my own home. My two sisters, Kira and Alexa, received warmth and attention from our mother, while I was left to handle chores and stay out of the way. As I got older, I learned my mother’s coldness toward me stemmed from my resemblance to someone she couldn’t forget.

At fourteen, I ordered a DNA test with my first job’s savings, hoping to uncover the truth. When the results revealed that my father wasn’t biologically mine, it shattered our family. My father left, and my mother blamed me, making life even more difficult. I was expected to contribute financially, while my sisters faced no such pressure.

After graduating high school, I moved into a small apartment, seeking peace. However, my family’s constant requests for money kept me from fully escaping. Eventually, I sought out my biological father, Rick, and learned he had tried to stay in touch but was told I didn’t want contact. He welcomed me into his life, introducing me to his wife and two sons. For the first time, I felt truly included.

Rick gave me a house, and I finally felt at peace. But when my mother and Kira showed up, expecting to stay with me, I stood my ground. After they refused to leave, I called the authorities and changed the locks. Cutting ties wasn’t easy, but it was necessary to protect my peace.

Finding my biological father and standing up for my boundaries transformed my life. I now understand that family is about love and support, not just who raises you. I’ve learned my worth comes from within.