My mother-in-law sabotaged my final exam by changing my alarm, claiming I needed to “learn my priorities.” She cost me the most important test of my career. But karma has a funny way of coming full circle, and she had no idea what was waiting for her.
I married Roger a year ago, and honestly, I thought I’d won the lottery. I have a sweet husband and a bright future ahead of me.
I was in my final year at Millfield University, studying to become a pediatric nurse, when this happened.
This program cost more than what most people make in two years, and every exam mattered.
My final exams were scheduled for three grueling weeks. These weren’t just any tests.
They determined everything about my future career, my license, and my ability to pay back the student loans that kept me awake at night.
That’s exactly when my mother-in-law Lydia decided to surprise us with an extended visit.
“Surprise!” she announced, standing in our doorway with enough luggage for a month-long stay. “I thought I’d spend some quality time with my favorite newlyweds.”
Roger lit up like Christmas morning. “Mom!
This is amazing.
Amelia, isn’t this great?”
I forced my biggest smile even though my stomach dropped. My final exams were set to start in four days, and I had planned to spend every waking moment buried in my textbooks.
“Of course it’s great,” I said, hugging her tight.
“How long are you staying?”
“Oh, just until after the holidays. Three weeks or so.”
Three weeks.
During the most important exams of my life.
“Well, we’re thrilled to have you here, aren’t we, honey?”
I looked at my husband and nodded.
***
The demands started immediately.
Lydia had planned elaborate dinners, shopping trips to the fancy mall across town, and visits to every relative within driving distance. Each invitation came with a guilt trip attached.
“Amelia, dear, surely you can spare one afternoon to visit your Aunt Martha.
She’s been asking about you constantly.”
“I’m sorry, Lydia, but I really need to study today.
Maybe after my exams?”
Her smile turned icy. “I see. Well, I suppose your books are more important than family.”
Roger was traveling for work most of the time, leaving me alone to navigate his mother’s passive-aggressive comments.
Every declined invitation became evidence of my selfishness, and every hour spent studying became proof that I didn’t care about the family.
The story doesn’t end here –
it continues on the next page.
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