“No,” I repeated, stronger. “That money is for my education. Dad set it aside for me. It’s not Cassandra’s house fund.”

Mom’s expression hardened. “This isn’t a negotiation, Hazel. This is what’s happening. Your sister has a family to provide for.”

“And I have a future to build,” I countered, my voice shaking. “I’ve earned those scholarships. I’ve worked while maintaining perfect grades. I deserve to use my college fund for college.”

Cassandra laughed, a cold, dismissive sound. “Oh, please. Try having three children before you lecture us on what you deserve.”

Tears threatened, but I held them back. “This isn’t fair, and you know it.”

Mom stood, her chair scraping. I stood too.

“My priority is my education,” I said. “That’s not wrong.”