Chapter 4: Insta-Rebellion—Mom Loses It
After hearing about Mom’s new allowance policy, Aubrey’s eyes went wide and she slapped the table, exclaiming:
“Dude, this is next-level. Even my stepmom would never pull this crap! $65 a month? That’s not enough for anything! I’m so broke, I can’t even pay attention! A grown girl—just one thing you buy is more than $65!
Installments and keeping accounts? 21st-century penny-pincher!
Rach, forget her money. From now on, just stick with me—I’ll make sure you eat and live well! $500 a month—no, $800!”
Aubrey had a way of turning outrage into a stand-up routine. I couldn’t help but smile at her dramatic flourish.
I quickly waved my hands, grateful for her kindness.
I didn’t want to take advantage. Pride’s a funny thing—hard to keep, harder to swallow.
She’s not my parent; she has no obligation to support me.
I reminded myself that friends can be a lifeline, but I can’t expect them to be parents.
Forget it. Worst case, I’ll pick up more part-time jobs. There’s always a way.
The city’s full of hustle—there’s always someone who needs a dog walker, a tutor, a barista. I just needed to find my niche.
Saying that, I pulled myself together, opened my laptop, and started searching for reliable part-time gigs nearby.
My tabs filled up with Craigslist listings and Indeed ads. Babysitting, data entry, weekend shifts at Mariano’s. I was ready to grind.
Aubrey pressed down my laptop, her eyes gleaming:
She leaned in like she was about to share a secret. “Rach, I have an idea—want to try it?
A way to make your mom voluntarily give you money.”
Her eyes sparkled, and for a moment, I wondered what kind of mischief she was planning.