Three years ago, I lost my fiancé Dorian in a tragic car crash. His sudden death left a hole in my heart I’m still trying to mend. One of the few things I’ve held onto is the engagement ring he gave me—it’s safely tucked away in a box, a quiet reminder of the love we shared.
Last week, my younger sister Elara got engaged. We were all overjoyed for her—until she approached me with a very unexpected request. She asked if she could have Dorian’s ring so she could repurpose the diamond for her own.
At first, I thought she was joking. But she was completely serious. She said it would be a meaningful way to honor Dorian, and since I wasn’t wearing the ring anymore, it made sense.
I told her no. Flat-out. That ring holds too much personal value for me—it’s not just jewelry, it’s part of my grieving process. She didn’t take it well. She called me selfish and accused me of clinging to the past, especially since I’m in a new relationship now.
Then things spiraled. She cried. My mom got involved and took her side, saying giving Elara the ring would be “symbolic” and help me finally move on. I told them both to drop it. But Elara won’t let it go—she’s been texting me constantly, saying it’s only fair she gets a family heirloom like our cousins did.
Thankfully, my boyfriend Cassian has stood by me. He thinks the request is way out of line. Still, half of my family now sees me as the villain.
So now I’m stuck, not knowing what to do. Is it wrong to say no? Or am I just the only one here who remembers that grief isn’t something you just donate away?
