At 35, I thought I was helping my best friend through one of life’s biggest moments—her third baby. Claire and I had been close since university, and I’d always shown up for her: weddings, babies, anything she needed. When she called overwhelmed and pregnant, I didn’t hesitate to fly from England to the U.S. to support her. But something felt off as soon as I arrived.

The day after I landed, she had an unexpected C-section. I supported her and helped with her kids while her husband, Jordan, casually mentioned he’d be spending his paternity leave hanging out with friends. Then Claire handed me a printed list of chores—everything from cooking to school runs—all under “Maya’s responsibilities while Claire recovers and Jordan rests.”

I was stunned. I had come as a friend, not a live-in maid. When I calmly told Claire I was going home, she accused me of abandoning her. The truth is, she and her husband had expected me to carry the weight while he lounged. That wasn’t love or friendship—it was entitlement.

After I left, Claire blocked me and sent a final text blaming me. But I knew better. Real friendship doesn’t come with chore lists or guilt trips. I still miss who she used to be, but I don’t miss being treated like my value came from how much I gave.