My MIL says that I got pregnant just to marry her son. He’s rich and seven years younger than me. Last week, she invited us to her 60th birthday. She looked at my 8-year-old son, then told all the guests, “Here is my DIL and her lottery ticket!”

My husband suddenly stood up and declared, “Yes! And you’ll never see them again!” After that, he stayed silent for the rest of dinner. About an hour later, we heard my mother-in-law scream. We rushed out and found her in tears.

It turned out that he had gone inside and taken down every photo from their frames—including his childhood pictures—and left her a note: “Never humiliate my family again.”

What should have been a celebratory evening in her honor became one of her worst nightmares. Her son had turned his back on her, and the guests left early. In the car, I could feel the anger radiating off my husband.

I won’t lie—I’m glad he stood up for me, and I feel like I “won.” But I also know that this might have lasting consequences for him. Should I try to bridge the gap, or is life better without her in our lives?

Yours,
Arya

Dear Arya! Thank you for sharing your story with us. We’ve prepared some guidance to support you as you work through this delicate situation.