I’m 27M, my sister Emma is 25F.
For context, Emma and I grew up with an abusive dad who constantly pitted us against each other, so our relationship was rocky for most of our lives. As we got older and he was no longer in our lives, things improved a lot. We rebuilt our relationship and I genuinely thought we were in a good place.
Last year Emma had my niece, and yesterday was her first birthday. I was excited to go because it felt like a big moment and I love my niece.
I showed up with my girlfriend, Mia, and greeted everyone, my family, Emma’s boyfriend’s family, all normal stuff. Me and Emma were even having a nice conversation about her new house and everything she’d changed since moving in.
Then one of her boyfriend’s family members asked me if I was a chef.
Quick context, I went to culinary school for two years but dropped out because I realized it wasn’t the right fit for me.
Before I could even answer, Emma immediately said:
“No, he’s not. He dropped out because he’s a loser.”
She said it loudly enough that people around us heard.
I honestly just froze.
The person who asked looked awkward and apologized for even bringing it up.
Mia pulled me outside and asked if I wanted to stay. I thought about it for a minute but I felt embarrassed and uncomfortable around people I didn’t really know, so we quietly left. No scene, no confrontation, nothing.
A few minutes later Emma texted me saying I made the day all about myself and that it was supposed to be about my niece.
Now I’m sitting here wondering if leaving made me the AH, because I didn’t say anything or make a scene, but I also can’t stop thinking about what she said.
AITA?