My Stepmother ‘Gifted’ Me an Old, Smelly Couch — When She Saw What I Did With It, She Demanded $2,500 From Me

When Nicole’s stepmother calls saying she has a “priceless” birthday gift, Nicole visits with cautious hope. But instead of something meaningful, she’s handed a filthy, smelly old couch. Torn between keeping her dad happy or calling out the manipulation, Nicole chooses to take it—then turns the situation around.

With her boyfriend’s help, Nicole cleans, repairs, and completely transforms the couch into a chic, almost boutique-style piece. On a whim, she lists it online for $5,000—and to her shock, someone buys it for their art studio.

But the victory is short-lived. Susan finds out and demands half the money. Nicole stands her ground, telling her that it’s her hard work that made the couch valuable. Though furious, Susan storms off, leaving Nicole to wait for the inevitable call from her dad.

Sometimes, trusting your gut—and your own effort—pays off.