When Mia’s stepmother, Trudy, decided to throw herself an extravagant party for her 45th birthday, Mia knew she’d be roped into the role of an invisible helper. Little did Trudy know, karma was on Mia’s side, waiting to dish out a lesson she’d never forget.
Get ready, because this is one of those moments where the universe steps in at just the right time, and let me tell you—it’s satisfying.
Meet the main characters: I’m Mia, a 16-year-old living with my dad and stepmom, Trudy. Trudy’s been around for about two years now, and she’s nailed the “wicked stepmother” role like it’s her job. If entitlement had a mascot, it would be Trudy.
Life with her feels like living in a bad reality TV show, except there’s no camera crew, and I’m definitely not getting paid.
My dad? Well, he’s more of a “keep the peace” kind of guy. He follows the “happy wife, happy life” mantra, but with Trudy, happiness is a rare commodity. She expects the world to revolve around her.
Then came last Saturday—Trudy’s birthday bash. She went all out, like it was a royal event. The party was more of a wedding reception than a birthday celebration. It was all part of her attempt to cling to her youth, strutting around the house like a queen in the days leading up to it.
“Mia, make sure you get me something special this year,” she said one morning as I was making my smoothie. “A dishwasher would be nice. I’ve done a lot for you, after all.”