When my mother-in-law told me I wasn’t “family enough” to be in last year’s Christmas photos, I bit my tongue. This year, though, I had a plan, and let’s just say, it had her storming into my house just days before Christmas.
If my mother-in-law, Ellen, ever wrote a book, it could be called “How to Get Rid of Your Daughter-in-Law in Ten Easy Steps.” Honestly, it’d probably hit all the bestseller lists because I know so many people who’ve dealt with in-law trouble.
I’ve been struggling with my mother-in-law’s attitude long enough to know that she gets off on this.
When Peter and I started dating, Ellen treated me like I was just passing through, like some temporary fixture in her son’s life.
For five long years, she made me feel like an outsider.
Peter’s family loved to take photos, especially during holidays, birthdays, and other important occasions.
Somehow, Ellen always managed to convince everyone that I shouldn’t be a part of it.
Whenever I said something, she would retort with, “Well, when you two actually get married, then I’ll think about it.”
Think about what? Treating me like a human being?
The worst part was how calculated she could be.
To anyone outside the family, she seemed perfectly polite, almost charming.
But behind closed doors, she was a master of the backhanded compliment.
“Oh, Elizabeth, you’re so… ambitious.
Peter must be exhausted trying to keep up with you!” Or, “I suppose your parents must’ve been modern to raise you that way.”
I’d brush it off, thinking: One day, when Peter and I get married, she’ll finally have to take me seriously.
Well, we did get married last year, just a week before Christmas, and let me tell you, nothing changed.
At the annual Christmas Eve gathering at their sprawling country house, Ellen’s true colors came out in full force.
After dinner, when it was time for the family photo by the fireplace, I naturally assumed I’d be included.
I was standing next to Peter when Ellen swooped in, her tone syrupy-sweet.
“Oh, Elizabeth, would you mind stepping aside? This is just for family.” I’m telling you, I was floored!
I stared at her, wide-eyed.
“I am family,” I said, glancing at Peter for support.
Ellen waved a dismissive hand.
“Well, you two just got married. You’re not familyenough yet.”
The room went dead silent. You could’ve heard a pin drop.
The story doesn’t end here –
it continues on the next page.
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