Facing my mother, who suddenly pretended to be a victim, I stared her down and declared firmly.

“No. I have no intention of giving her back. Absolutely not. I will take care of my sister.”

“What are you talking about? I will call the police.”

While they were agitated, I observed them calmly and responded clearly.

“I’ve already explained the situation to the police and reported it to Child Services. I’ve consulted with a lawyer as well. In fact, you are the offenders.”

“What? What did you say?”

I have been consulting various professionals to continue supporting my sister. Considering the possibility of being accused of kidnapping by my parents, I’ve also been researching legal regulations.

Since Noel has reached adulthood at 18, she can legally decide her own residence, in future surpassing parental rights.

Noel, having left home of her own will to avoid negative influences from our parents, faces no legal problems in choosing to live with me, her sister.

With this fact behind me, I confidently confronted my parents and engaged them in this conversation.

“Staying with you only brings unhappiness. My sister and I are not tools for you to flaunt for your own vanity.”

Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed a neighbor appear. Perhaps they had noticed the commotion and came to check what was happening.

Now I’ll make the most of this opportunity to create a scene.

“Everyone, these people stopped my medical treatment to send my sister to basketball studies abroad. Honestly, it’s an abnormal situation. If my aunt and uncle hadn’t taken me in, I might not be here today.”

I shouted as loudly as I could.

“Oh, wait. What are you saying?”

Ignoring my flustered mother, I raised my voice even louder to make my point.

“You forced Noel into becoming a basketball player just for your own pride, sacrificing her childhood.”

“Quiet down!”

My father’s face was red with anger, and he reached out to grab me. However, I shook off his hand and continued fiercely.

“What kind of parents are you, saying you won’t accept her quitting until she becomes a professional player? You only see your children as tools. Neither I nor my sister will ever return here. If you try to interfere, I will call the police. Just so you know, I’m already prepared to sue. That’s why I came today.”

I fixed my parents with a stern gaze.

They twisted their faces in discomfort and struggled to respond.

Looking around, I noticed that many neighbors were watching our intense family argument from their windows and yards. The expressions on their faces showed surprise and concern.

I vowed never to visit this place again. With that resolve in my heart, I left the house confidently.

Time passed, and 8 years later, I reached a milestone at 30 years old and decided to retire from competitive trading card gaming.

Originally, I planned to retire at 25, but I prioritized taking care of my sister and put my life plans on hold.

Due to the harsh training she endured as a child, Noel developed a knee injury, which led her to set a new goal of becoming a physical therapist.

She had once dreamed of being a professional basketball player, but had to give up that dream due to her injury.

After a year of preparatory school, Noel finally advanced to a vocational school.

During this time, I learned how much she had suffered under our parents, and I saw the harsh reality for the first time.

When she came to me for help, to make up for her past, I decided to support her tuition.

Eventually, Noel graduated from vocational school and earned her qualification as a physical therapist.

She is now fully committed to helping athletes.

“One day, I’ll repay you, Sonia,” Noel always says cheerfully every time we meet.

Her face is brimming with vitality.

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