Writing has always been my sanctuary, a place where I felt truly alive. My mother encouraged my passion, reminding me not to lose it. So, while I worked as an English teacher to maintain stability, writing was my real joy.

I met my husband, Alex, through school, where he gave a presentation about business. He admired my creativity, and four years later, we were married. His family welcomed me, except for Clara, his sister. From the start, she belittled my writing.

At a family picnic, Clara mocked my passion, calling it a “little hobby.” Despite having my short stories published, her taunts were relentless. She saw my writing as insignificant and often made cruel comments.

One evening, Alex and I hosted a dinner party. Clara seized the moment to taunt me again. Amidst a conversation about dream careers, she disparaged my work, suggesting I should give up. The laughter around the table felt like daggers.

Later, Clara snooped in my study and found the draft of my novel. She read excerpts aloud, mocking every line. I tried to stay composed, but her cruelty was unbearable. After the party, I found my manuscript discarded in the trash. Clara dismissed my writing, assuming I’d give up after the laughter.

Burning with a mix of anger and inspiration, I channeled my feelings into a new project: a novel that satirized Clara’s arrogance and cruelty. The book became a success, and I signed a deal with a major publisher.

I invited Clara to dinner and handed her a copy of my book, with the dedication, “For Clara, thanks for being the inspiration.” Her smirk faded as she read the book’s success and saw the parallels to her own behavior. Her employer eventually fired her, citing her behavior, and she came to me in distress.

“You did this, Hayley! You’ve ruined me!” she yelled. I calmly replied, “I only wrote what I knew. You doubted my work, but it seems you were wrong on both counts.” Despite her plight, I offered her a job lead as a teacher’s assistant. She declined, but I took some satisfaction in overcoming her mockery.

I didn’t relish hurting her, but I felt a sense of accomplishment in proving her wrong. How would you have handled it?