Money often becomes a reason of conflict in families, and the tension can be even greater in blended households. Harper found herself in a challenging situation when her eldest son, from a previous marriage, was set to inherit a substantial sum from his late father. She decided to share her story and seek advice on how to navigate this sensitive issue.

This is Harper’s letter:
My ex passed away and left our 15-year-old son $300k, which I’ll manage until he’s 18. I also have another son, 12, from my second marriage, and my husband wants to use some of that money for our other son’s education.I refused. He said, “What kind of mother are you? You protect the rich kid and turn your back on the poor kid!” I stayed silent.

The next day, I came home, and my blood ran cold when I found the house unusually silent. I felt something was wrong. I froze in terror when I opened my younger son’s room and found my child’s belongings had vanished -his clothes, toys, and books… they were all gone.For illustration purposes only
In our bedroom, my husband’s things were missing too. On the bed was a note: “If you’re so determined to put your older son first, my son and I will leave you to it for a week or two. I doubt you’ll miss us.”

My world shattered. I know he’s taken our son to “teach me a lesson,” but I’m devastated. Was I really a bad mother? I was only trying to be fair to my oldest.