sonia | Leftover Thanksgiving query

One of the figurative leftovers from my friend's visit is puzzling over ownership of literal leftovers. My friend's narcissistic partner (let's call her Nan, for short) made it known several times that she expected to take a share of Thanksgiving leftovers with her when they left. I said no every time, and indeed did not give them any, except the dish my friend prepared (with ingredients I provided). I spent a lot of money, time, and energy on that food, and it's *mine*. My fridge and freezer have plenty of room in them.

As far as I remember, my parents didn't send leftovers home with people. I have been the happy recipient of Thanksgiving leftovers at other people's homes, but it certainly wouldn't occur to me to demand them. I also help cook, unlike Nan who found other things to do so assiduously that she was late sitting down to eat with us. To be fair, my friend did help, although I had to be firm to keep her from getting distracted by Nan's drama.

My parents immigrated to the US as young adults. Did we miss learning some essential part of the Thanksgiving ritual? Does feeding someone Thanksgiving dinner imply a commitment to sharing the leftovers? Is there a regional aspect to this? I grew up in Northern Virginia.