A friend launches a small business, and you decide to help because the idea sounds promising and the friendship feels strong. You hand over money with the hope that the business will grow, and you trust the person behind it even more than the plan. Then the updates slow down, while your friend seems to vanish from every conversation that involves the investment. Meanwhile, her social media shows sunny beach photos and pricey resorts that feel wildly out of sync with the story you were told. Well, that’s an uncomfortable place to stand. Luckily, there are practical paths forward; each one starts with understanding your true position.