Did we really build our house for nothing?
What, you mean we constructed that huge home for no reason? the motherinlaw snapped. Then give me back half the cost!
I need to have a serious talk with you, said the shorthaired woman as she sat opposite Camille. Before you marry my son, there are a few things you must know.
The slender blonde stared at her future motherinlaw, whom she was meeting for only the third time, with a questioning look.
In short, if you want to join our family, you have to understand that Pierres most important people are his parents, Antonine declared proudly. We dont need a daughterinlaw who will run my son.
Do you think Ill run him? Camille interrupted.
Please listen to me all the way through! Be patient, the woman retorted sharply.
Camille immediately 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 this: as soon as Pierre gets married, well move into the almostfinished house. Well all live together as a happy, big family.
Great! the young woman exclaimed, forcing a smile.
The motherinlaw raised an eyebrow, surprised by such a swift acceptance.
Im thrilled you agree with us! I think well get along nicely, Antonine winked at her.
She then began to praise Camille to her son, emphasizing how wonderful, smart, and caring she was.
Seeing that a little extra support wouldnt hurt, Camille tried even harder to please the woman, offering small gifts on and off special occasions to show her thoughtfulness.
A year later, fearing that Pierre and Camille might never marry, Antonine kept pushing Pierre toward the big step.
When are you going to propose? she asked almost daily. If you wait, the lady might leave and youll regret it
After some reflection, and perhaps realizing she was right, Pierre proposed, and Camille joyfully accepted. Pierres parents covered the wedding expenses, confirming to Camille that she had chosen a good partner.
For the first three months the newlyweds rented an apartment, then Antonine announced with enthusiasm that the house was ready for them to move in.
Pack your things, were doing the same! she told her son and daughterinlaw.
Why? Were fine here, Camille retorted, unwilling to live with her inlaws.
What do you mean why? the motherinlaw asked, puzzled. We agreed that once the house was built wed all move in!
Move in? Whos stopping you? Camille replied haughtily, her tone suddenly harsh toward Pierres mother.
Antonine was so taken aback that she fell silent for a moment.
Remember, you promised me, the woman said calmly.
Whatever I said before doesnt matter. I dont want to live with you any more! Camille declared firmly. Well live separately! In fact, since youre leaving, Pierre and I will move into your apartment.
What? Dont get any ideas! the motherinlaw shouted. Youre arrogant! she added angrily before hanging up.
Camille heard a few beeps before she, surprised, ended the call.
Barely had the conversation ended when the phone rang in the kitchen, where her husband was.
She listened and realized Antonine was calling Pierre to complain about her.
Thirty minutes later, when Pierre finally finished his call, Camille entered the kitchen. Seeing his upset, angry expression, he looked at her sternly and asked,
Whats going on?
Whats wrong? Camille crossed her arms.
My mother called. Shes demanding money
What? Money for what? Camille was taken aback.
For the house. What did you promise her before the wedding? To live in it together?
Nothing, Camille played dumb.
You approved her house project, didnt you? he asked, frowning.
And then? I approved it back then, but now I dont want it anymore, she replied, averting her gaze.
I never supported it because I thought she was wasting time! The house sat unfinished for three years, but after we married she finished itall because of you! Pierre scolded.
So its finished, and then what? Camille shrugged. Whats the problem?
Before he could answer, his mother called again. Pierre handed the phone to Camille, saying,
Here, talk to her.
As soon as Antonine heard her daughterinlaws voice, she launched into an attack.
Refund me for the house! she demanded.
What refund? Are you crazy? Camille retorted, irritated.
Because of you we built that house for nothing! Give me half the price!
Half of what? Camille snarled.
Five million euros! You owe me five million! Otherwise
What are you going to do? I never signed any paper! Camille replied with a sly grin.
In that case well cut off all contact with you! the motherinlaw threatened.
Fine! Camille smiled and hung up.
Antonine began demanding money from Pierre, who ended up paying her fifty thousand euros each month.
Youll only repay me after ten years at that rate! the mother complained. Either move into the house or increase the payments.
Since Pierre had no extra cash, he accepted his mothers terms. Camille, however, disagreed with the arrangement, and after six months the couple permanently split.
Have We Truly Built Our Home in Vain?
