John and Mary, a conservative couple, showed clear favoritism toward their younger son, Junior, while neglecting their older daughter, Lydia. They held traditional beliefs that prioritized male children, giving Junior all their attention and resources. Lydia, in contrast, was often ignored and relegated to doing chores. When she asked for money to replace torn pants, her mother refused, saying Junior’s new PlayStation was a higher priority.

Lydia found solace with her grandfather during the summer, contrasting sharply with Junior’s well-funded music camps. When Lydia decided to stay permanently with her grandfather, her parents were surprisingly enthusiastic, making it clear they were relieved to have one less child to care for.

After graduating college, Lydia returned home seeking refuge, only to find her room had been turned into Junior’s music room. Her parents, still favoring Junior, asked Lydia for money to help him with a new apartment. Lydia refused, severed ties with them, and later forgave them when they sought help after Junior stole money and disappeared. She chose to help them financially but made it clear they had been forgiven but not forgotten.