I should’ve known better. As a single mom of two, caution is second nature—especially with money. But when my charming younger brother, Drew, asked me to co-sign a car loan, I gave in. He promised it was just a formality, that he had a new job and was finally turning things around. Our mother even backed him, assuring me he’d changed.

For two months, everything seemed fine. Then Drew moved out of state, casually texting me about “a better opportunity.” I didn’t think much of it—until the debt collectors started calling. He had only made one payment. I was suddenly responsible for $30,000.

When I confronted Drew, he laughed. Told me I should’ve read the fine print. That I had the loan, and he had the car. I was stunned. But rage wasn’t going to fix this—I’m an accountant, not a fighter. So I documented everything. I hired a private investigator, tracked him down, and gathered proof.

With help from my ex, a cop, and my lawyer, I filed a civil suit. Drew didn’t show for the first two court dates, but when he finally did, he was smug—until we played the voicemail where he joked about getting “a free ride.” The judge ruled in my favor. The car was repossessed, and Drew was ordered to pay damages.

My mom later showed up with cupcakes and an apology. “I was wrong,” she said. She offered to watch the kids so I could take a break.

Now, I’m rebuilding—and finally breathing again.