Did we really build our house for nothing?
So we erected this huge home for no reason? the motherinlaw snapped. Then reimburse me half the cost!
I need to have a serious talk with you, the shorthaired woman said, sitting opposite Camille. Before you marry my son, there are things you must understand.
The slim, blonde girl stared at her future motherinlaw, whom she had met only twice before, with a questioning look.
Basically, if you want to join our family, you have to know that Pierres most important people are his parents, Antonine declared proudly. We dont need a daughterinlaw who runs my son.
Am I supposed to run him? Camille interrupted.
Please listen to me all the way through! Be patient, the woman replied sharply.
Camille instantly lowered her eyes, embarrassed, not wanting to upset Pierres mother.
They had only been together a short while, and Camille didnt want to appear unpleasant.
So, Antonine continued, our plan is simple: once Pierre gets married, well move into the almostfinished house and live together as a happy, big family.
Great! the young woman exclaimed, forcing a smile.
The motherinlaw raised an eyebrow, surprised by the quick acceptance.
Im thrilled youre on board! I think well get along well, Antonine winks at her.
She then began to praise Camille to her son, emphasizing how wonderful, smart, and caring she was.
Seeing that extra support wouldnt hurt, Camille tried even harder to please her, offering small gifts now and then, showcasing her thoughtfulness.
A year later, fearing Pierre and Camille might never tie the knot, Antonine urged Pierre to take the plunge.
When are you going to propose? she asked almost daily. If the lady leaves, youll regret it
After a period of thought and realizing Antonine might be right, Pierre proposed, and Camille gladly accepted.
The wedding expenses were covered by the grooms parents, confirming to Camille that she had chosen a good match.
For the first three months the newlyweds rented an apartment, then Antonine announced enthusiastically that the house was ready for their move.
Pack your things, were doing the same! she told her son and daughterinlaw.
Why? Were fine here, Camille retorted, not wanting to live with her inlaws.
What do you mean why? the motherinlaw asked. We agreed that once the house was built wed all move in!
Move in, whos stopping you?! Camille shot back haughtily, her tone suddenly cold toward Pierres mother.
Antonine was so stunned she fell silent for a few seconds.
Wait, you promised me, the woman reminded calmly.
Whatever I said before doesnt matter. I dont want to live with you anymore! Camille declared firmly. Well live separately. In fact, since youre leaving, Pierre and I will move into your apartment.
What? Dont get ahead of yourself! the motherinlaw barked. Arrogant! she added angrily before hanging up.
Camille heard a few beeps, then the line clicked, surprising her.
The call ended just as the phone rang in the kitchen where Pierre was. Listening, Camille realized Antonine was calling Pierre to complain about her.
Thirty minutes later, when Pierre finally finished his conversation, Camille entered the kitchen. Seeing his irritated, angry face, he asked sharply:
Whats going on?
Whats wrong? Camille crossed her arms.
My mother called. Shes demanding money
What? What money and for what? Camille was taken aback.
For the house. What did you promise her before the wedding? To live together in it? Pierre frowned.
Nothing, Camille feigned innocence.
You approved her house project, didnt you? he pressed firmly.
And then? I approved it back then, but now I dont want it, she looked away.
I never backed her plan because I thought she was wasting time! The house sat unfinished for three years, yet after we married she completed itall because of you! Pierre snapped.
Well, its finished, so what? Camille shrugged. Whats the problem?
Before he could answer, his mother called again. Pierre handed the phone to Camille, saying, Talk to her.
As soon as Antonine heard her daughterinlaws voice, she launched her attack.
Refund me for the house! she demanded.
What refund? Are you crazy? Camille retorted irritated.
Because of you we built this house for nothing? Then give me half the price! the motherinlaw fumed.
Half of what?! Camille snapped.
Five million euros! You owe me five million! Otherwise Antonine shouted.
What will you do? I never signed any papers! Camille replied slyly.
In that case well cut off all contact with you! the motherinlaw threatened.
Fine! Camille smiled and ended the call.
Afterward Antonine began demanding money from Pierre, who had to pay her fifty thousand euros each month.
Youll only repay me after ten years with that! the mother complained. Either move into the house or increase the payments.
Since Pierre had no extra cash, he accepted his mothers terms.
Camille disagreed with this arrangement, and after six months the couple permanently split.
