When can we move into your new house? asked the in-laws bluntly.
Sorry? Emily tensed.
Well, since youve finished everything, we thought youd invite us soon, her father-in-law reasoned.
Daniel, do you realise this is completely out of line? Emily could no longer hold back, especially since her husband pretended not to understand why she was so upset.
Or had they planned it all along? Made her pour years of her life into this house, all her hard-earned money, only to leave her with nothing?
Unlike their peers, Daniel and Emily hadnt bought a tiny flat for a ridiculous sum. When they first started dating, theyd decided to build a house instead. It was cheaper, faster, more practical. Thirty square metres in the city? No thanks. Theyd have a hundred and thirty for the same price.
Room for kids, pets, everything, Emily had said excitedly.
Luckily, the land was already sorted. It belonged to Emilys aunt, who signed it over when she heard about their plans.
I never gave you a proper wedding gift, shed said. Now youll have space to raise your family. That plots been sitting empty for twenty yearsbetter it goes to you.
Still, it wasnt easy. To save money, theyd taken on some of the work themselvesevenings, weekends, rain or shine.
Emily had even dipped into her inheritancemoney from her grandmothers flat saleand poured it all into the build.
But when the house was finally done, every minute of labour had been worth it.
Of course, it wasnt completely finished. There were still details to wrap up, finishing touches to add. But it was livable, and that alone had filled them with pride.
Theyd already started spending nights there, hosting friends. The only thing that stung was Daniels parents never lifting a finger to help, despite being asked repeatedly.
Theyre retired! What could possibly keep them so busy? Emily had muttered.
They wouldnt lie, Daniel had shrugged.
She wanted to believe they just had bad timing, but doubt gnawed at her.
Dan, the new TVs arriving today. Can you take it? Daniel was rushing out the door, toast in hand.
Yeah, of course. What time?
Said between three and eight. Theyll call an hour before.
Fine. Heres your lunch.
Thanks. Gotta run. He kissed her cheek and left.
Around four, there was a knock.
Emily assumed it was the delivery. Weird they hadnt called first.
She opened the door.
Daniels parentsMargaret and Robertstood there.
Oh! She blinked, too surprised to speak.
Hello, love! Didnt expect us? Margaret smiled.
Sorry, yes, of coursejust didnt know you were coming.
Going to let us in? Robert winked.
Right, yes, come in!
They stepped into the spacious open-plan living area, glancing around.
Oh, this is lovely! Margaret marvelled. So much better than a flat. Proper space for everyone!
Uh, yeah Emily nodded.
So, when do we move in? Robert asked casually.
Sorry? Emily stiffened.
Well, now its all done, we assumed youd have us over soon, Robert mused.
We didnt exactly plan for four people, Emily said carefully.
Oh, we dont need much! Just a room! Robert laughed.
Were renting out our place, love. Extra pension money, now youve got space, Margaret explained.
Did you talk to Daniel about this? Emilys stomach twisted.
Not yet, but he wont mind.
Emily was speechless. After all the times theyd refused to helpnow they wanted to *live* here? And profit from it?
She couldnt bring herself to refuse outright. But she prayed Daniel would.
Are we strangers now? Robert huffed. Not even offering tea?
Right, sorry. Emily forced a smile.
They lounged at the dining table, sipping tea, when her phone rang.
The delivery driver apologised for not calling earlierhe was outside now.
Emily excused herself. The men brought in the massive TV box, wished her well, and left.
Bloody hell, thats enormous! Robert whistled. Wheres it going?
That wall, Emily pointed.
Brilliant! Perfect for evening telly.
We werent planning on getting an aerial.
What? Watching a blank screen, then? Robert scoffed.
No. Streaming films, shows. Nobody watches live TV anymore. Unless youre ancient.
Thats us! Margaret laughed. Ill have Daniel sort the aerial.
Emily counted the minutes until Daniel got home.
The second she heard his car, she rushed to the door.
Your parents are here. They want to *move in* she whispered, gripping his shoulders.
*What?*
Shh, theyll explain.
Since when? Daniel called out.
Oh, just popped by to see your palace! Love it, Robert said cheerfully.
Palace? Wait till we have kidsno room left then.
Nonsense! Youve got two spare rooms upstairs! Margaret cut in.
Ones for the baby. The others for guests. We have people over all the time.
Oh, we cant stand noise, Margaret glanced at Robert.
Right. Youd have to keep it down.
*Excuse me?* Daniels voice turned sharp.
We already told Emily, Robert said smoothly. Were moving in, renting our place out. Nice little earner.
Not happening.
Daniel! Margaret gasped. No room for your own parents?
Was there room in your schedule to help us? Not even with the bloody fridge! You never showed up oncenow you want to *profit* off our house? No. Love you, but no.
Margaret and Robert exchanged looks.
Come on, love. Time to go, Robert said stiffly.
They left without another word.
The moment the door shut, Emily threw her arms around Daniel.
Thank you! I was terrified youd side with them.
Why would I? I saw how hurt you were every time they brushed us off. And now this? Earning a little extra? Please.
Thank you, she whispered, holding him tighter.
Dont mention it, he smiled. Just feed me.
