My roommate’s endless requests for gourmet groceries with promises to pay me back, which were never fulfilled, were pushing me to my limits. The final straw was when she asked for a list of premium items for a party. I knew it was time to teach her a lesson.
About a year ago, Taryn and I moved into our cozy city apartment. Everything started well—shared chores, movie nights, and occasional outings. But soon, Taryn’s habit of manipulating others became clear.
Initially, it was small favors—“Hey Kelly, could you pick up some milk?” But it escalated. Taryn’s tastes were expensive. “Can you grab some truffle cheese for a study snack? I’ll pay you back,” she’d say. Spoiler alert: she never did.
At first, I brushed it off. She claimed to be buried in studies while I worked hard. But her parties and lounging told a different story.
People chatting at a party | Source: Pexels
One evening, after a tough day at work, Taryn asked for party supplies—cheeses, exotic fruits, imported chocolates, and good wine. I was fed up. If she wanted premium, she’d get it in a way she didn’t expect.
Instead of an upscale store, I went to the bargain aisle. I bought the cheapest boxed wine, processed cheese slices, bland apples and bananas, and off-brand chocolates. I couldn’t wait for her reaction.
When I returned, Taryn barely glanced at the bags. “Thanks, I’ll pay you back later,” she said.
On party night, I stayed to see the fallout. Taryn boasted about her “premium” spread. It didn’t take long for guests to notice the wine was awful. One guest questioned if it was mislabeled. The processed cheese slices elicited laughter, and the off-brand chocolates were spat out.
The party’s energy fizzled quickly. Guests made excuses and left, leaving Taryn mortified.
I couldn’t help but rub it in. “Wow, Taryn, your party is really something,” I said with a smirk.
Furious, Taryn confronted me. “You did this on purpose!” she shouted.
I shrugged. “Oh, did I? Must have mixed things up. But don’t worry, you can just pay me back for what I did buy—whenever that day actually comes.”
Her angry silence was my victory. I had finally made a point. Over time, Taryn and I grew apart but developed a mutual respect. I had taught her a valuable lesson about respect and boundaries, and she learned to appreciate it.
