I almost laughed, but there was nothing funny about the dealership estimate. My sister finally admitted that Grant had suggested she ask for my new car because its resale value was high enough to clear several debts left from their divorce and still provide a down payment on another vehicle. The old sedan I had offered was never meant to become her transportation. They had already discussed selling that too. Somehow, my generosity had turned into two assets they believed they could convert into cash.
Dad looked genuinely stunned. Mom tried calling it “practical,” which told me she had known more than she wanted to admit. I opened my folder, removed the unsigned title, and slid it back inside. Then I picked up both sets of keys. “You’re right,” I said. “I should not give away something that isn’t appreciated.” My sister immediately reached toward me. “Wait, you can’t take the old car back.” I reminded her that legally, it had never stopped being mine.
