When I first met Avery, my husband Scott’s best friend, I thought she was wonderful. She was funny, ambitious, and easy to get along with. As a nutritionist, she and Scott bonded quickly over their shared background in the health field—he worked as a food safety auditor—and soon she became part of our circle. We even hung out together, the three of us, going to concerts or sharing dinners. I never imagined she would later test my patience to the breaking point.
The shift began when Scott and I announced my pregnancy. We were overjoyed, and our families were thrilled. Avery was among the first to congratulate us. She texted Scott, “You two are going to be amazing parents!” At first, it felt genuine, a sweet gesture from a close friend. But soon after, the floodgates of unsolicited advice opened.
