After my dad remarried when I was 12, his new wife, Madison, clearly favored her daughter, Ashley. Ashley got everything—cars, parties, praise—while I got criticism and neglect. My dad stayed silent, and I grew up feeling invisible and second-best.
When prom came, Ashley got a custom dress and lavish plans. I dared to ask for a prom dress, but Madison shut it down, calling prom a waste of money and saying I wasn’t responsible enough. I was crushed.
Weeks later, I found a charity that gives free prom dresses. I chose a stunning green gown, did my own hair and makeup, and felt confident for the first time in years. At prom, Madison—volunteering as a chaperone—was shocked to see me. I thanked her for “saving me the expense” and enjoyed the best night of my life. It was the perfect, quiet revenge.