I'm Refusing To Give Nephew His Gift After Bullying His Sister r/Relationships

[@AndyyWithAY]

Wow!! This garbage abuser came to OP's home cut the power so it couldn't be recorded and beat her near death. He let's his child be abused and fights this hard to take her from the one person who's actually gives AF. I'm so disgusted.

[@PrincessQ-fj9ly]

Probably because he doesn't want to be exposed as the monster he is. Well, joke's on him. Now everyone and I do mean EVERYONE knows exactly what he and his wife are capable of and what kind of monsters they are.

[@sadraccoonboy]

It makes me so sad that op thinks Lou doesn’t call as much because they think they’re a reminder of her worst times. I really hope in the future those two get to talk and meet up again free of the awful people in their lives

[@brigidtheirish]

And that one of the therapists wants OP to minimize her presence in their lives! That's just awful!

[@drewtatum5846]

@@brigidtheirish right!? Though I can't help but add on this: OP had a lot to deal with as well so maybe this is more for OP than the kids as she did get assaulted by her brother and almost died. I'm just speculating here 🤔

[@brigidtheirish]

@@drewtatum5846 Maybe. Maybe instead of her being a reminder to them, they'd be a reminder to her. Would be nice if someone put it in those terms for her so she wouldn't feel so guilty. Then again, OP seems like the sort of person who puts everyone else's needs before her own.

[@Ivy94F]

@@brigidtheirish And it was stressing her out. Every bit of it. She needs a break. She’s grieving the loss of those bonds right now, and that’s ok. But she has no idea how fulfilling being the ‘cool aunt’ can be as of yet, so I feel hopeful for her.

[@rinpaisys]

Man, I am glad lou is doing well, and that josh is changing for the better….but I can’t help but feel bad for OP. The person who did everything to stop the tragedy of that family and make a change for the better is the one left behind. It’s so bittersweet, idk man.

[@tallyp.7643]

Some heroes don't wear capes, don't get the prizes, or even the thanks. But OP did right. Deep down, the kids and (sane) family know she did what was needed. And when the dust has settled (and hopefully her brother rots in prison), perhaps OP and the kids will meet face-to-face again & it'll be great.

[@PrincessQ-fj9ly]

@@tallyp.7643 I sincerely hope so. That would put a big smile on my face. (⁠✿⁠^⁠‿⁠^⁠)

[@MasterBuilderDragon]

I pray Lou and Josh realize that she’s the real hero of this story.

[@jamestomlin5525]

It's like Simon's song _I need to save you, but who's going to save me?_

[@darnelltucker9163]

I don't think so. OP is a hero regardless. The best reward for her is for Lou and Josh to be free from their toxic parents and have healthier lives. Because of her, they received therapy and have gained some clarity to how abusive their oarents are. I hope they NEVER see their parents again.

[@Mia-dt3gl]

It’s so sad that the family dynamic is so harmful to the children that OP, who did _nothing wrong_ in this situation, can’t have a relationship with his niece and nephew. I wish him all the best.

[@cronadojo8385]

Even worse, more people would rather support abusive family members because it’s Mom & Dad. The grandparents in this knew everything and had no intention to intervene

[@kichikitsu]

OP is a woman btw, which is likely why her brother felt entitled to try to murder her... And his ex wife. He couldn't handle a woman daring to defy him, even if he didn't give a shit about Lou at all, so in his mind he should be allowed to murder his sister.

[@PeacheIIe]

her*

[@kyraevermoon5544]

OP is a fucking hero. She saved both Lou and Josh, despite what a little turd Josh was. I am SO sad that neither of them ended up with OP, but I think it's for the best. I hope those kids both get the help they need and grow up to be even one tenth as kind hearted as OP, because even one tenth would be a good person. Such a bittersweet ending to a wild ride.

[@davewriter100]

You have to remember, Josh got that way because of his parents. I even suspect that Lou was physically abused by both parents in the past, before this story even began.

[@Kati_P]

Lou's parents don't see her as a human being; they see her as a lesser being to demean and ridicule to make them and their son feel better about themselves, which is absolutely appalling and abhorrent. They shouldn't be allowed anywhere near Lou ever again. I'm so glad Lou and OP have each other. If they stick together they'll be okay.

[@lifewithlee6298]

The therapist is right josh shouldn’t reach out to Lou as that might trigger her.

[@desireeloveros1055]

@@lifewithlee6298 hopefully they can reconnect later in life

[@mrs.h2725]

I hope one day cultures around the world will stop persecuting women for being women. From our natural bodily functions being demonized to our very existence being an offense. Religious/cult ideologies are the foundation for that bs.

[@Kati_P]

@@mrs.h2725 Maybe they'll figure out soon that, by their society's rules, women are the ones who bring forth the male children they so desperately want, take care of the home and make life easier for the oh-so-important males, and raise both genders of children, which makes them a valuable member of the family and worthy of respect, kindness, consideration, and love. In reality they deserve respect just because all living beings are worthy of basic respect and consideration, but women are the caretakers of the home and family in those cultures and should be treated well. Happy people perform better in all aspects. If you want your home to be a happy one treat your caretakers with respect and courtesy; they will take that energy, magnify it, and pass it on to those she cares for. That's one of our super powers. 😉

[@queaponte4819]

M.

[@SamasBananas1]

I feel so so bad for OP. She's the one who was there to help those kids and sacrificed so much and she's the one who gets left behind. It's for the better, but it's still really sad

[@PrincessQ-fj9ly]

Lou may no longer be in OP's care, but I'm sure she'll never forget who rescued her. ❤️

[@carolsimpson4422]

@@PrincessQ-fj9ly maybe she'll just remember her as someone else who abandoned her. Poor kiddo.

[@wolfinadogsuit]

OP was a guardian angel. I wish OP so much love, prosperity, and happiness. This was one of the hardest stories I ever heard

[@TheEDFLegacy]

It's also worth remembering that her brother was also rescued by OP, despite her misgivings. It sounds like he will likewise become a better human being for it. I can only imagine him following in OP's brother's footsteps.

[@ComaLies225]

I’m happy Josh and Lou are settled into their new families, especially Lou thriving. I hope Josh thrives as well, despite him being a punk he was also a victim to his parents shitty parenting. OPs parents, sibling and ex SIL needed to be shamed and humbled for being trash people

[@aluralovell6829]

I think Josh was abused too as they said he went through his own trauma I think this was a case of a child adopting the behavior they felt would please their parents to avoid the abuse, I notice that when Josh was away from his parents he genuinely seemed to care about his sister and wasn't cruel. Literally, whenever Josh wasn't with his parents he does the right thing.

[@paulastiles5507]

@@aluralovell6829 I wonder if Josh was the one who was sexually abused, while Lou was "just" physically and emotionally abused.

[@aluralovell6829]

@@paulastiles5507 That is a strong possibly like the social worker was desperate for him not to be with his parents or grandparents. Given what happened to the sister I can only imagine what they did to him. Notice how he doesn't miss them only his sister, he even felt safer with OP so his parents definitely made him say that stuff about sexual abuse that he took back as soon as he was away from them.

[@paulastiles5507]

@@aluralovell6829 I can see why they didn't want to leave either of the children with OP. It would have put OP and the children into extreme danger. OP's brother already assaulted her once and tried to kill his STBX. It's just not safe. I hope OP gets out of there sooner than later.

[@aluralovell6829]

@@paulastiles5507 I mean he would have killed OP if not for their neighbor. The man is dangerous.

[@TheFoodGuideOfL]

I'm only on update 3, but jfc. OP is a saint, and I'm so worried for both Lou and her brother The way that OP's brother carefully turned off her power so that the camera wouldn't work? And then broke in? Absolutely terrifying

[@technicaldifficulties368]

That dude is absolutely insane. Like, what the hell

[@hunnykun101]

I know right?! Like what does he gain by this?! He already loss his 'Daughter' and he truly never cared for her, so why he goes to crazy lengths to assault OP

[@queencatherineofaragon938]

Not surprised in the slightest. His misogyny and entitlement to women went unchecked his entire life. Misogyny is hate and there are no depths deep enough that hate won’t go.

[@queencatherineofaragon938]

@@hunnykun101 he believes he’s entitled to op cause she’s a woman in his family. Aka she must be subservient to him always. She defied him and risked ruining his reputation, in his mind Op MUST be punished. Men like this can’t stand to have their ego questioned let alone bruised.

[@JHXC]

Not to mention the attempted murder! Does he do that with Lou? Absolute monster.

[@bruuh0_0]

I remember this So good to know OP is recovering and Lou is happy, even Josh isn't acting like his father anymore even if he isn't going to stay with OP

[@lunaticbz3594]

I remember this as well but had only heard the first update in the past. On one hand things spiralled in ways I didn't expect. I am very relieved that the sexual abuse allegation turned out not to be true though as I thought it was very likely.

[@KCohere33]

I bet that Josh was being encouraged to abuse his sister and/or copying his parents. It’s was the best thing to get him away from them. OP is such a brave and kind person.

[@RuminatingRaptor]

@@KCohere33 I think you’re right.

[@paulastiles5507]

@@KCohere33 I'm really glad that Josh voluntarily got himself out of that situation and sought OP out. It indicates he was just mirroring his parents and didn't really want to become like them. That is unusual.

[@WobblesandBean]

I'm not sorry for Josh. Like, at all. Like father, like son, and I don't see him changing for the better now that OP has him, too. Lou is probably terrified her bully is back living with her again. HE DELIBERATELY BROKE HER ARM, FFS.

[@JustAnotherBuckyLover]

My heart breaks for OP. She was clearly the scapegoat of the family all her life too, and even now, she's still the scapegoat. And I hate that people are saying that she's just a reminder of bad things, especially about Lou. As a scapegoat of a family that dealt with endless abuse and neglect, I know that if someone had taken me away from that, the only feelings that I would have had about that person would be positive ones. I truly hope that she grows to know that she's more than just a reminder of bad memories and that she didn't deserve to lose everything for being the only person to stand up for that poor little girl (and even taking in the child that accused her of SAing them both and kidnapping, who was perpetuating the same abuse all over again already - because she recognised that he was also a victim as well as an abuser and that she was the only person who didn't just give up on him).

[@GMAMEC]

So sorry to hear about your experience. In most situations, a person’s true character usually comes out with time. I hope that was the case for you and you are better now.

[@zoe9190]

Sometimes you do need distance from the person who helped you escape the abuse. When they are older, you can be back in their lives. It sounds like Op isnt really in the right life space to be a true part of Lou and Joshs life at the moment anyway. Lots of healing, finding your self worth, being happy etc, and shes only just started that journey

[@JustAnotherBuckyLover]

@@zoe9190 "It sounds like Op isnt really in the right life space to be a true part of Lou and Joshs life at the moment anyway." Wow. That is phrased in a way that comes across as incredibly toxic. I shouldn't have to point this out but just because someone is dealing with stuff, it doesn't mean they should be arbitrarily forbidden from interacting with their family, friends or other loved ones (which is what she was told, that she shouldn't be interacting with her own young relatives), assuming that their own issues aren't harming the people around them (which there was ZERO evidence for in this whole video). And I'm not sure anyone could think they're going to magically "fix" their relationship when the kids are older (quite likely adults or well into their teens) and potentially haven't seen their aunt for years? That usually isn't how it works. Even if they manage to not feel abandoned all over again - especially the girl - there's still a good chance they're going to feel they did something wrong, and even if therapy manages to somehow prevent that, they're still never going to have the same level of closeness. And if they're told "you can't see her for your own good" then they're also potentially going to feel like, yet again, their own wishes aren't being heard or respected. And even if somehow, magically, none of those likely possibilities occurs, then it's still very unlikely that things will just go back to how they were before between them. Assuming, of course, they even want that relationship. So I stand by my initial comment. It really, REALLY sucks that OP has been basically told to stay away from the kids she cares so much about because she's apparently just going to cause them more harm - which she did, regardless, because she loves them and is a good person and sometimes we do hard shit when we're told it's for the benefit of others, even though knowing it's meant to be for the best doesn't stop it hurting like shit... but now, also, apparently because she's too "broken" to be "a real part of their life" as well? Goodness me...!

[@yourlocalcoffeeaddict9603]

@@zoe9190 L take

[@ryznak4814]

When you see a 30 minute video and it’s one story you know you are in one heck of a ride.

[@sadtitties222]

I'm telling you! God, I'm still tearing up thinking about this story and the updates. OP is a motherf*cking hero and saved these children from her monstrous "family" members. Many blessings for her and the kids! 💕

[@MeanGinia9607]

The OP is a hero. She saved her niece and nephew. I hope they all thrive.

[@schwagecko5589]

This story is so sad because OP did everything right and still gets shafted. It's so sad that she's been told that she is a reminder to the kids of their worst times when she did everything she could to get them out of that. Obviously it's most important that the kids are healthy and mentally well and if the the therapists told her presumably it needed to be said but man that must have hurt. She lost her entire family including two kids who she basically had to raise for a time, one of which she was planning for a future with, dropping everything for them. I'm glad she has a cat to comfort her. I hope OP finds fulfillment in life and makes a chosen family who treat her right. She's an absolute Saint and deserves the world

[@2Ten1Ryu]

This was such a rollercoaster of emotions to listen to. After all that Op has done for Lou, I feel kinda heartbroken that she is now not so much part of Lou's life after everything she has done for her. It sucks to have to be the reminder of the bad times for that little girl. I hope she grows up to be a wonderful person and OP and her can have a great relationship when she is older and really can appreciate what has been done for her.

[@SLTheOneAndAwesome19]

Oh, that one hurt. When I was younger I suffered relentless bullying at my brother's hands. He had severe anger issues, and as his only younger sibling, I was his easiest target. He came at me with a knife, he put a plastic bag on my head to try and strangle me, he hit me hard enough to leave marks. The only rooms in our house with locks on the doors were the bathrooms and he knew how to pick the locks with a coat hanger, so there was nowhere I could escape. It wasn't until I started therapy almost two decades later that when I explained these things to my psychologist and my aversion to touch that she explained that it was trauma and that what I had experienced wasn't bullying - it was domestic abuse. Hearing the description of what Josh did to Lou just made me see myself and my brother. But the description of their father just laughing as Lou screamed and cried at the bottom of the stairs was horrific. My parents immediately put us all in family therapy, found alternative outlets for my brother's anger, punished him, took me out or sent me to grandparents to distance me from him. They worked their damndest to make us a functional family again and to mold my brother into the best man he could be. We don't have the warmest relationship. We live across the world from each other, never see each other, and only message one another on our birthdays. But he's a good man now, and the kindest, most loving father to his two kids. I can't imagine my parents standing idly by or even encouraging his behaviour when we were children. The thought that OP's brother and SIL would allow that to happen with their own children is horrifying. I hope that with the influence of the families they're staying with that Josh and Lou can grow and thrive and managed to grow far from what their parents almost made them.

[@wickeddanish5814]

i am sending you the biggest internet hug !

[@tireddaily]

Story 1: My heart hurts for OP, their brother is awful and both Lou and her deserve so much better.

[@neonlights3739]

I like your pfp!

[@Passions5555]

Sorry for being completely off topic but.. 🥺 you have Varian from Tangled the Series as your avatar. 🥰 First time seeing someone with a Varian avatar outside of the Fandom. I love tangled the series and Varian is one of my favorites 🥳

[@tireddaily]

@@neonlights3739 thanks!

[@tireddaily]

@@Passions5555 no need to be sorry at all! I agree sm and I don’t see many of us either 😭

[@AndyyWithAY]

They had a childish kid argument over a remote, that happens all the time. He went to HER room and destroyed her precious plush then SHE gets grounded. I hope they can get Lou out of here. If she's not being SA'd too that is likely next on the horizon. He laughed at her crying, and she HAD a FRACTURE. These POSs are just disgusting. I don't understand how anyone could treat an innocent child, especially one they brought into the world

[@beeppboopp]

The parents are teaching their son that he is entitled to both his sisters body, and her possessions. He is allowed to physically abuse her without consequence, *her* body does not matter to them. This is exact how abusers like that are created.

[@PrincessQ-fj9ly]

I know right? As an aspiring mother myself, this is arguably my biggest pet peeve, these sorry excuses for parents popping out dozens of babies when they shouldn't have even had one. Not only that, but also refuse to be proper parents or even worse, straight up abusing these poor children and poor babies. It's disgusting. I hate how cruel the world can be sometimes. Like, there are wonderful people out there who would be wonderful parents and they have trouble with having children and then there's these monsters or just plain deadbeat parents who are breeding like rabbits. It makes absolutely no sense to me. But I understand that life isn't fair and you unfortunately don't get to change the cards you're given.

[@kimsandlin5286]

Something caught my attention when OP said that Josh told his therapist that he'd also been abused and the therapist couldn't tell her how since she's not Josh's legal guardian. I wonder if that demonic brother is/has SA his son and this special privilege goes above and beyond him being male but into grooming territory. I hope not for Josh's sake. These poor kids. This is horrific. 💔

[@ugojlachapelle]

OP is the absolute best. She probably made sure Josh straightened up, so he won't become his douchebag dad's copy. And Lou is well at home with her cousins. Bittersweet ending, but if OP does ever have children, they're gonna be an awesome parent.

[@jamestown8398]

OP and Cousins are amazing people for stepping up to the plate like this. I hope that, at some point in the future, OP can be a part of Lou’s life. The Reddit community also really shone this time, with all the support for OP during this time. Brother, SIL, and OP’s Parents are all evil. I’m glad brother is in jail and I hope he stays there for a long time. I also hope OP doesn’t reconcile with her parents because I don’t think they’re sorry or willing to change. Anyone who values “image” or “reputation” more than the well-being of the people they’re supposed to love is scum of the earth in my view.

[@PrincessQ-fj9ly]

You're absolutely right. Anyone who puts a picture perfect image above having a genuinely happy and loving family, DO NOT DESERVE TO HAVE A FAMILY! To the dumpster fire with the lot of them, especially the satanic brother. I hope that monster spends the rest of his life in prison.

[@janglesthearsonist5265]

I hate when I hear Mark say "Now I'm gonna turn this one to you guys" because it means the video is over. My heart drops each time I hear it.

[@Tammohawk1]

Those poor kids. I feel for both of them. Josh is also a victim of abuse, just not as intense. If not for his parents, he wouldn't have tormented his little sister. The fact that the parents rights were terminated so quickly says that the abuse was very bad. I hope both kids grow up and that this doesn't affect them for the rest of their lives. I also hope that all of OP's aspirations and dreams come true. She deserves nothing but the best that life has to offer now.

[@wmdkitty]

The boy is not a victim. He is an abuser.

[@yourlocalcoffeeaddict9603]

@@wmdkitty That boy didn't know what he was doing. It's more then likely no one taught him how to be good other then OP. It could also be that the parents were forcing Josh into doing things, considering how he would act around OP.

[@catsncrows]

That brother is a prime example of someone who loses power over a situation, loses their mind and freight trains straight into a brick wall. They leave wreckage behind but also wreck themselves in the process. I've known a few of these

[@ArcticWolfGod]

Holy crap. Brother looks like a bad person at the start, but turns out he's straight up evil.

[@TsukiKageTora]

Brother… you mean Lou’s brother or OP’s brother?

[@ArcticWolfGod]

@@TsukiKageTora Took me a moment to understand what you were talking about, but I did finally remember what the story was about. Isn't it obvious? Did you not listen to the whole story? There's only one person there who can be thought of as "straight up evil".

[@AndyyWithAY]

When I saw the video posted I was NOT expecting to be hit in the feels this soon in the day. I'm so proud of OP. She's so brave and self-sacrificing. I wish many blessings to her and hope these kids continue to recover. So many toxic abusive adults were raising them

[@toolman9573]

"The cat thinks she owns me" As a cat owner, the cats absolutely correct!

[@twilightsparkle75]

29:00 "for some reason SIL was expecting BIL to break into her house after she went against him" oh gee i wonder if it could be BECAUSE THATS WHAT HE DID TO YOU?!?!?!

[@onepieceisking5493]

Story 1, NTA. Everyone but op are beyond vile to that poor child. I'm actually not surprised that the parasite was going to try to attack op after hearing her ultimatum. Usually I'm against blackmail but this time it was beyond necessary to save a poor girl from vile monsters. That parasite is a psychopath, he planned it all and was more than likely going to kill op but didn't count on the neighbors interfering. But I'm not surprised that since he wasn't successful in killing op he tried to make serious allegations to "make op pay" and forgot all the evidence that op has against them. Another thing, he probably even thought after the beating he gave op she wasn't going to tell the cops and everyone the truth about them. Just shows that golden children that are also monsters aren't smart. Bruh they were trying to take Lou back to the golden child just to be abused again. Good on the cops for stopping them. Of course the egg donor and sperm donor take in Josh. Not surprised that the donors are going to bail the golden child out and don't even care that he tried to KILL op. Good on op for not answering the phone because all their going to do is scream and threaten op. Haha, their own golden child damned them by admitting everything. Definitely terminate the egg donors parental rights. Not surprised that they showed up at op's place after the parasite lost his job must have been VERY satisfying for the lawyer to kick them out. The kid realized that his whole but op are vile monsters and just wants to be loved. Specially after his friends leaving him after hearing how he's treated his own sister and false accusations against op. Sounds like he was planning on killing his own wife for leaving him and looks like the donors have finally realized what monsters they and their son. Also sounds like SIL wants nothing to do with anyone and not surprised that the parasite hasn't said anything. In the end op is a hero that had saved two children from vile monsters.

[@PrincessQ-fj9ly]

I remember this story! I read this with Lost Genre first. And oh my gosh! Poor baby Lou..........She did not deserve to have a crappy family like that. OP is a grade A saint. She is absolutely right. OP'S family absolutely sucks........Not wanting girls? I know culture is different, but still that's all I need to know. And favoritism is too obvious here. Ugh........OP is definitely NTA, but her family sure is, especially her brother and sister in law! 😡 After Updates: Wow! I'm absolutely fuming! OP'S brother and sister in law are absolutely despicable and pure evil! And it's rich OP's sister in law would accuse her of trying to take her daughter and abusing the kids when she never wanted her in the first place and even let Lou be abused! Probably don't want to lose their perfect lives. Well, joke's on her and Sick Brother. They got exactly what they deserved. Jail time and divorce. Same with OP's parents, they absolutely suck. What they done definitely warrants NO CONTACT. EVER. And good for OP for standing up for that precious baby girl! ❤️ Same with Lou's grandparents and OP's cousin as well as her friends. She deserves to have people in her corner! Lou may not be in OP'S care anymore, but she will never forget who rescued her. ❤️💕❤️ As for Josh, I was worried about him, but I have hope for him. Hopefully he can be a better person with time. ❤️

[@immapotato1]

I'm glad to hear the 3 new updates. hope OP can get her own fresh start now that the kids are getting theirs.

[@PrincessQ-fj9ly]

@@immapotato1 Me too. I lost hope for Josh, but the updates gave me hope. I know it's wishful thinking, but I do hope Josh can grow to be a better person and mend fences with his sister.

[@personneici2595]

I wish I'd had an aunt like OP growing up. What an amazing human. ♥️

[@1964Puddles]

Omg, this whole thing...broke my heart. So bittersweet. I cannot fathom parents being so cruel, insensitive, and disgusting to their children. Thank God those poor kids got away from their trash parents. My gosh. 😥

[@dokikicingene1517]

I remember the story. I’m just glad she’s OK. The absolute evils in that family. And the trams is so scary

[@Orinatl]

I feel so bad for op. I really hope she maybe considered adopting. I think she’d be an amazing mother, and in another country it might be easier to a adopt.

[@tallyp.7643]

Story 1: Until bro broke in to hurt OP, I wonder if brother hated Lou but knew if he laid a hand on her himself, he'd be in big trouble. But if he lets his boy do it, any injuries they can try to explain away as clumsiness or "playing too rough." He created a proxy to hurt this little girl. Good gravy--he's a monster.

[@MiraTheWarlock]

Given he shoved her into a room, and beat OP so violently they were sure he was gonna kill them, makes me think he intended to legit murder OP and use the story he coached Josh with to portray himself as the hero who rescued his daughter

[@Kstanimal]

@@MiraTheWarlock Yeah, and he planned on killing his ex-wife too.. that shits insane

[@AndyyWithAY]

I understand how OP feels. After everything I'd fell extremely uncomfortable having Josh in my home. He was groomed to say it, but he accused OP of abuse!

[@maryseflore7028]

OP's first intent was to save Lou, but in the end, she saved Lou, and Josh, and to a certain extent, SIL. Josh will not be like his father - he will be a loving brother to Lou, when he's ready. THAT, in itself, is wonderful. Josh has learned a lot through this, and he will be the wiser for it. Lou will also bloom in time. She knows pain, but also, she knows forgiveness - she misses Josh, that says a lot about her character. She doesn't miss her parents though - she knows the difference between bad parents and Josh. I hope one day, OP, Josh and Lou will develop a good relationship. And, a side note, OP's parents will hopefully see their daughter as a valuable part of the family, now that their precious son is in jail. They can't blame OP for their son attacking his ex, now, can they...

[@whims6278]

Ftr ANY culture who reveres men over women is cruel.

[@susanvanophem4569]

You are the best aunt EVER! You never stop protecting those children. You are truly a good person and we need more people like you. And yes cats own us we don't own them. I hope you find happiness and joy in your life the way you helped Lou and Josh better lives. May you find joy, happiness and love.

[@MsTemptation]

Wow, op you’re an amazing aunt. You helped both your niece and your nephew by your actions. You may not see it that way but you did that. Neither of their parents were worthy of their children. Don’t worry about your parents because now people know that they are to blame for how your brother turned out. I’m willing to bet that he was allowed to treat you just as poorly when you were growing up together. You broke a horrible cycle within your family. I wish you , your niece and nephew every happiness.

[@carlamurphy9328]

This story broke my heart, both kids were traumatized and abused. Thank goodness both children got fresh starts away from their worthless sperm and egg donors and their grandparents. The grandparents raised a monster of a son who would have turned Josh into a permanent one like his sperm donor, especially if their country’s equivalent of CPS didn’t fully investigate and intervene thanks to OP. I have a feeling the children are forever grateful they had ONE adult on their side, especially Lou, because she had the courage to gather the evidence necessary proving child abuse and taking the first step of getting Lou out of THAT home. Thank goodness she aired out the dirty laundry on SM after the psychopath brother cut the power assaulted OP, and made serious accusations of abuse against OP as a means of retaliation. It breaks my heart that sperm donor and egg donor coached their son they were traumatizing and abusing to telling a false serious accusation in an effort to get the daughter back . Thank goodness CPS and the authorities had their number. That’s thanks to her attorney and OP herself. I am confident OP will finish her certification and will thrive in life getting a fresh start herself. The kids living separately with cousins and their spouses willing to step up are what’s best of them. Being too close to their abusers would compound an already big problem and could render intervention efforts null and void, and things could have ended in preventable tragedy. With the kids being in new environments and being adopted into new families, OP can focus on addressing her own trauma so she can thrive and love her best life.

[@Stari27]

I feel so much for everyone in this story, but I have to admit I feel the most for Josh. Small children want approval from their parents more than anything else and most likely from a very young age he learned that he could get that approval by mistreating his sister. I doubt it ever even registered to him that what he was doing was wrong because he was getting the approval of his parents. And then a friend of his followed by a family member he cared about very much started the process of showing him what he had become. When someone is completely a victim like his sister they have to learn to get past being a victim. When someone is a victim in a way that makes them do terrible things like Josh did because of the abusive manipulation from his parents the guilt and shame have to be unbearable. On top of that most people will not see someone like Josh as a victim they will only see Josh as an abuser which means that he doesn't get the support. In many of the comments especially early on Josh is spoken about as if he were an adult abuser making adult decisions. He's a child reacting to his parents approval in a way that is natural for a child. He does need to understand that what he did was wrong but he and those around him also need to understand that he was a victim of his parents abuse too.

[@bessieburnet9816]

Exactly. He is a manipulated little boy. Sure he ain't the perfect victim but he still is a victim

[@kateemma22]

OP is such a genuinely good person and they deserve the world.

[@AndyyWithAY]

On the plus side less than a decade until Lou can go NC with these people. This is like Cinderella type 💩 This makes me sad and furious all at once

[@immapotato1]

both kids got legally separated and adopted out. adoptive parents know the story too and noone will allow even OP's parents near them. brother has a restraining order against him for OP and the kids though he's currently in jail from what seems like trying to kill his wife

[@janglesthearsonist5265]

I think she is legally no contact to everyone that abused her other than it sounds like there is a possibility for Josh to call her down the line. When she's an adult that's when she'll be able to contact all those assholes to tell them where to shove it if she wishes.

[@PrincessQ-fj9ly]

@@immapotato1 Good. That monster deserves to rot in prison and I hope he rots in prison for the rest of his miserable life.

[@TsukiKageTora]

It’s worse than Cinderella. She broke her leg and her entire immediate family laughed at her in pain and then dad got mad at her when she wouldn’t stop screaming in pain… if it wasn’t for the neighbor taking the kid to the hospital, she would have suffered a possible incorrect healing process that could lead to many complications later in life

[@MusicGirl881]

I remember this story. I’m glad to hear that OP, the kids especially Lou are doing better and are in better loving homes. OP’s parents, brother and ex-SIL deserve to be in the lowest pits of hell. They had no issue with the child abuse of Lou and then Josh and only had an issue with it when it became public knowledge and their reputations were destroyed. I hope Lou and Josh are getting the help they need and maybe one day they can rekindle a sibling relationship because they are both victims of the parent’s shitty parenting.

[@chamab.6800]

This was painful but thank goodness she stepped in. Her stepping in was the catalyst to those babies getting away from their abuse.

[@FreeToWaffle]

Absolutely sobbing while doing the dishes Mark 💔 the part when Josh came to live with OP, how she had to overcome his accusations and the subsequent trauma that caused to enable her to give Josh the love that he desperately needed for his own trauma - utterly devastating. It makes me feel sick to think this, but I’m not sure Lou would’ve survived if OP hadn’t become involved. Either by the hands of her father, or by Josh through his dads manipulation or by her own hand with the sheer abuse and trauma she was enduring. So thankful for people like OP in the world. First class hero ♥️

[@tonibully4090]

I wonder what kind of abuse Josh went through. I have seen where a child like him would get abuse if they don't abuse the other children. We will never know what happened in that house, but I think it's much more than OP knows. The parent have been teaching Josh to hurt Lou. I wonder what happened when he didn't at the beginning. I can see this has been passed down in this family. I'm 100% sure that OP's brother would have killed her, if not for someone hearing her. I hope after they get help and down the line, that Josh and Lou can start to build. The best part is that they both are safe and learning to be truly happy. I'm sending them love and prayers. A heart for OP, Josh and Lou. 💜💜💜

[@mogulmade]

Op upended her entire life for her niece. That's huge love ❤️

[@sixwingedbee81]

I know it says Lou wasn't abused in that way but it still makes me nervous that her egg donor was calling her that.

[@Mesa4u2nv]

This story had so many twists and turns. Some people are not cut out to be parents. They "loved" their son so much that they scarred him (hopefully not for life). And poor Lou and her angel Auntie were the punching bag for the entire family. What a story!!

[@ruthbeamish8849]

This truly is one of the worst stories of child /girl abuse l have ever read!!! I feel quite murderous thinking about Josh and his parents I've now listened to the whole story and now sympathise with Josh also. Poor children. VILE parents. OP is GOOD person.

[@battlesister1559]

Josh's redemption arc began, Lou is thriving, OP is going to focus on his life ft. cat, crappy parents and grandparents are out of the pic... All good, sounds like a happy ending, I wish the kids the best on their life

[@BerryTrekkin]

It would’ve been nice for OP to be able to stay close to the kids, but I understand it’s for the best that they start anew. Hope OP gets that dream job far away and that she and the kids can one day reunite ❤

[@jessiejeanne9717]

The first story made me think... When you have sets of narcissistic parents (or the narcissist\codependent dynamic), it's easy to see why their kids are screwed up, zero conscience having heathens. However, how does a child form a moral compass and integrity when they're only shown abuse and neglect? How is a belief system, necessary for the child to know right from wrong being,fostered? You especially see this when there's a golden child and a scapegoat. Eta: Mark, I love that you're so sweet!

[@maggpiprime954]

Heartbreaking as this story is, it really does have the best possible outcome for the kids. They now have the opportunity to heal and grow and have their childhood returned to them. I hope OP can heal from her own trauma over the loss of these children she loves so much. Coz she's never going to be able to see them again until adulthood, and even then that's no guarantee. Glad she has a kitty. Those fuzzy little weirdos are real life savers, and a balm for the soul.

[@melindaflick631]

This one is heart breaking. It probably IS better for the kids to be in functioning families with 2 parents, and siblings, but it's got to be hard as hell for OP. Jesus. I hope things pick up for her soon. I hope SIL and brother rot in the deepest hottest hells...

[@whims6278]

Wow. OP in 1st story is a superhero. My heart hurts that so many girls and women endure this and so much worse because men have decided they're better (even though women are the ones who grow actual life, but I digress). This just makes me so gd angry. I'm happy this girl had someone to speak up for her and to see her and her worth.

[@bloonh8tr619]

No matter how many times I hear this story it makes my blood boil. I'd throw the parents down a flight so they can feel part of the pain they inflicted on Lou. Glad Lou is thriving

[@veezopolis]

My blood actually ran cold when they said their power turned off.

[@AndyyWithAY]

I've watched way too many soap operas over the years, so I love a little cheeky blackmail from time to time. Especially when it's for the greater good like this. I have no sympathy for these garbage abusers

[@brigidtheirish]

In this case, it's not so much blackmail as *insurance.*

[@ladybee4109]

I had a knot in my throat the whole time I was listening, poor kids. Hopefully, they'll have a better life away from their awful parents.

[@sandrajohnson6810]

Those children are so very fortunate to have had OP in their corner to fight for them and not give up. I am glad we had a happy ending.

[@lizzykayOT7]

OP is a brave and strong person, she intervened when it would have been easier to let things alone. She blew things up in the best way. May she, Lou and Josh find happiness.

[@l.g.2888]

Lou will always remember that someone fought for her. Josh will remember that someone stepped in to take care of him when he needed it. I hope those kids have a better life ahead.

[@susanlosey9511]

It’s good that the kids were taken away from those toxic parents. Josh is still young enough that with the new family and therapy that he will grow to become a good person. He was abused mentally by his parents and grandparents as well. Lou will thrive in her newfound environment as well. OP, your sad now, however you were the one who stepped up and saved both of those children. Without you who knows what would have happened to Lou and how Josh would have become. My heart goes out to you. Thanks to you both kids will grow, thrive and become great adults!Love ❤❤❤❤

[@gaxalee7392]

Barely hit the 3 minute mark and I already feel like crying. My older brother and I had a bad habit of arguing and fighting over everything when we were young, but my brother never hurt me or damaged my property despite having severe anger management issues(that he still has to this day). I struggle with anxiety, trauma, depression, and mild paranoia, and not even in my wildest nightmares have I ever imagined my brother being even half as cruel to me as I can tell this boy is to Lou. I hope Op can be her “out.”

[@Bayou-kun]

That story went south real fast. I thought it was only punishing a brat from a light bullying but damn, that really hits the feeling! OP is a saint, I'm wishing all the best for OP and hope good karma will get back to her soon.

[@tamarasmith9060]

Wow, what a story. It's sad OP wouldn't be allowed to keep the niece just for being single, but at least in the end the kids are each in a better home & getting help, with OP still in their lives.

[@kieramaccourt8717]

OP is a hero. She saved those two kids lives and selflessly gave them a future.

[@Cheshyre.]

Op is the type of person who makes your life richer just knowing her. She was worried that this sounded like her saying the story was all "Me me me me" and all I could think of was "Yes, it's all you you you you taking a BEATING for that child!" She took a beating for that child. She rescued them, God bless her brave heart!

[@AuskaDezjArdamaath]

Holy shitsnacks! This one was a ride! Poor OP got left behind in all this for all the effort they put in to rescue Lou and inadvertently, Josh as well. That brother was a piece of work! Hopefully, the kids will grow up without too much lasting harm and will be able to reconnect. Hope OP gets to be in their lives again too. Shame on the parents for enabling that monster of a son.

[@treehouse2902]

The children getting permanently removed from the home was a great outcome. The father is abusive and violent and needs to serve time. OP needs a permanent RTO. OP's parents are toxic. Both kids will need therapy. This was an acceptable ending. OP is a hero.

[@lulujac9196]

Sounds like maybe Josh was forced to be the way he was with his sister…or strongly encouraged… I wish all nothing but happiness in the future! OP YOU ROCK!!!

[@dlpacres4718]

I've laughed at some of these stories. Some have made me angry and just about every emotion in between, but I've never cried...until this one. I have no words to adequately describe how sorry I am for OP and everything she's been through. And don't even get me started on the SIL and brother. There's a special place in hell for people like them!

[@salt7625]

Man...ik it's best for lou and josh but i feel bad for op, op has a knack for caring for children it's a bittersweet thing, knowing it's for the best of all of them, but also knowing how involved op is in trying to help, even at their own detriment. They'd be a great parent one day I'm sure, but still man, the tears are real

[@savvivixen8490]

This has been an oddessey. From the beginning, I knew this was going to be terribly rocky. The fact that OP was asking if they were TA over the only thing gone right in the initial situation, sent off red flags. Like, "Hon, what were you expecting us to say? ... Are *you* okay?" She barely addressed it, but it sounds like she herself suffers from systematic trauma. The fact she strained against her family to do the right thing, then turned around and heavily doubted herself is... heartbreaking. And also traumatized behavior. I'm glad she's in therapy now.

[@Gumbier_Than]

As messed up as the first story is, this is why I feel that God made Aunts. I take my role seriously and hope if I ever find myself in a situation like OP, I'd have the strength plus resources to give my niblings what they need. Kudos OP. Despite money being a concern, you took your niece away from a crap situation anyway. You formulated a plan to alleviate your financial concerns, and getting her all the supports she needs. 😃👏🏾

[@maury3733]

I cried when she described what Lou went through, how horrible u can be to laugh at the pain of a child that clearly asks for a bit of love. Its just unfair.

[@beatrixthegreat1138]

In this case blackmail is very very right. Good on ya for saving your niece from these Dursleys.

[@GIChiyo]

The fact that people as cruel as the parents in the first story shocks me, how can you torture a child like that

[@James-sq4sc]

Thank god Lou is safe and loved now. I can’t imagine being abused and mocked by your family like that. She’s just a little girl and her family hates her. Op saved her life

[@robryan142]

Wow. Never posted a comment before. Op is a real hero. Wow. I pray that when the kids are older much older they will be able to read this to see what an angel of an aunt that they have and to see how she took all this on to set them free.

[@juanhaines7295]

I've heard this one before. Im so glad Lou and josh are away from there. Good on you op for saving them.

[@littlegreycat]

I wish the OP many good things. I hope they reach back out to those who offered help and finds a good career.

[@snow2267]

Wow... just, wow. I can't imagine how OP felt during the end. Not just the kids not being in his care. After fighting and litterally getting beaten. He's been told he is a source of pain and should step out of the kids' lives.

[@myneighborhood3466]

To think that all this started with a birthday gift!! wow!

[@nuttmare9438]

Op is the real hero in this story. I hope someday, those children will continue to keep her in there lives and can appreciate her kindness. The family who stepped in to help the children are also amazing and made a real difference. I hope for only good karma for op in the absolute

[@yourmom69179]

Josh & Lou are lucky to have OP. They stood up for those kids when no one else would & this makes them a hero in my eyes. I hope they're all happier & doing well now & hope Lou & Josh's parents are never allowed to have another child. Ppl like that make me sick.

[@TheTrueKarin]

These poor kids. I hope they use that chance and will have the life they deserved. Also respect for op, don‘t feel guilty. You where there when Lou needed you. I am sure she does not associate you with the abuse itself but as the hero who safed her out of it. Also I hoped this parents will never ever have children again. Both Op‘s brother and his know ex are at fault and in the case they truly get a kid again, let cp not leave there lives. And for the grandparents….Op go no contact and let them life they’re last days with the knowledge they raised a monster and that there other kids does not want anything to do with them. Let them feel shame.

[@peggyseabrun4829]

This child is being abused, and not only by her brother, glad you stand up for her

[@uneedmusic1]

OP is a rockstar for standing up to that toxic family

[@civivva4501]

OP should make evil relatives pay maintenance!! Looking after a child is more expensive than she might think.

[@iononcantomascrivo]

As someone who was once in Lou's shoes, I applaud OP for stepping up to the plate. The difference between this story and mine, I suffered in silence in a very toxic household while my brother was canonized and beatified by my parents. Parents should never play favorite with their kids. I missed out and was always pushed to the back burner while my twin brother was favored. He was the golden boy jock. My feelings were devalued. I was told I was being difficult or a whiny cry baby and my parents turned blind eye as well as a deaf ear to my brother's abuse to me. As a result of my parents spoiling, my brother grow up to be an arrogant butthole with no respect for boundaries, zero comprehension of the word no and no expectation of there being reprisals or consequences for his actions. He passed away right before Thanksgiving of last year after a lengthy drug problem.

[@deijix]

“There’s child abuse, violence, domestic violence, and depression.” Oh boy! Sounds just like my childhood! 😂😂

[@BraveryWing26]

The ending was much happier than I thought it would be from reading the comments.

[@denetrarideout4472]

I rarely cry at these stories but I’m bawling bc it’s all so sad and I feel so bad for op but I’m hoping for the best for the kids in their future

[@Kelseyzj]

We should all aspire to be exactly like OP in story one. What an angel. ❤️

[@amypennington5057]

As a mother I cant imagine 1 of my kids being abused like that by a sibling and not do anything and to hear the parents talk they way they did and how they treated poor Lou. My heart aches for OP. They did the right thing then got punished for it. At least they got the ball rolling and now the kids are in much better places. Maybe one day when they are older they will be able to reunite ( if they want to ) and go spend a holiday with OP.

[@joshuaortega1852]

That broke my heart. I am so glad that those kids are in a better envirament. Hope things get better for OP.

[@laurentiare]

*First Story OP:* Holy shit. I feel so terrible for Lou. OP, BIG PROPS to taking Lou away from a dangerous (and abusive) situation. To add, I want to stress to OP to get Lou a therapist to help her overcome her trauma. On the other hand, Josh needs help too. It is likely he has been abused and manipulated into hurting his sibling. While I want to be clear, his cruelty towards his sister does NOT go unpunished and should be dealt with immediately. I hope the best for OP and the kids. ❤

[@HeoBaby24]

What shocks me a bit is that over the post everyone in the post. (besides op brother) finally realized what damage they done. They're fixation on they're reputation/favoring the son clouded them from the fact how they treated BOTH kids and the damage they did to they're lives. Sil:loses everything husband,kids and rep Brother:is now an abuser, violent man Jack: realize the damage he also caused to his sister and that he's a victim in all this Grandparents: realize they're part in this and letting everything happened the way they did All because lou just existed I'm glad everyone is doing better And does who are doing worse deserves everything they got and more