Tori’s life fell apart when her parents abandoned her and her two younger brothers. At 15, she was left to care for them, but Child Services soon separated them into different foster homes. Tori’s foster family was cold and neglectful, prompting her to run away multiple times before choosing life on the streets over their indifference.
Determined to survive, Tori took on odd jobs, missing her brothers dearly. Despite setbacks, she saved enough to attend community college, eventually earning a degree and becoming a store manager.
Years later, her parents unexpectedly appeared at her doorstep, asking to stay with her. Anger and disbelief washed over Tori as they spoke of family values. She reminded them of their abandonment and handed them an old ten-dollar bill her father had given her years ago, telling them to leave and never return.
As they left, Tori felt a sense of closure, finally free from her past and ready for the future.
What would you have done?
