When Dustin’s sister Jessica sold him her old, beat-up car for a symbolic price, he saw it as a project worth taking on. He poured $5,000 into upgrades — fresh paint, new tires, a reupholstered interior, and more. Proud of his hard work, Dustin was excited to drive it to university. It wasn’t just a car anymore; it was his effort come to life.
Everyone who saw it couldn’t believe it was the same car she’d given him.
Then one morning, Jessica stormed in and demanded the car back, claiming the ownership was never officially transferred. She said her husband’s car had broken down and she needed it for her kids. Their parents took her side, pressuring Dustin to hand it over. Stunned but calm, Dustin pretended to agree.
He knew he had to think smart rather than react emotionally.