Did we really build our house for nothing?
So we built this huge house for nothing? the motherinlaw exclaimed. Then give me back half the cost!
I need to speak with you seriously, said the shorthaired woman, sitting across from Camille. Before you marry my son, there are some things you must know.
The slim, young blonde looked at her future motherinlaw with a questioning stare; it was only her third meeting with her.
Basically, 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 tries to control my son.
Am I trying to control him? Camille interrupted.
Please listen to me until the end! Be patient, the woman replied sharply.
Camille immediately dropped her eyes, embarrassed, not wanting to upset Pierres mother. They had only been together a short while, and she didnt want to appear unpleasant.
So, Antonine continued, our family has a plan: as soon as Pierre gets married, well move into the nearly finished house and live together as a happy, big family!
Great! the young woman exclaimed, forcing a smile.
The woman raised an eyebrow, surprised by the quick acceptance. Im glad you agree with us! I think well get along well, Antonine winked.
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 her. She gave small gifts now and then, highlighting her thoughtfulness.
A year later, fearing that Pierre and Camille might never marry, Antonine urged Pierre to take the plunge.
When are you going to propose? she asked almost daily. If you wait, the lady might leave and youll regret it
After some reflection, realizing she might be right, Pierre proposed, and Camille happily accepted. The young mans parents covered the wedding expenses, confirming to Camille that she had made a good match.
For the first three months the newlyweds rented an apartment. Then Antonine announced excitedly that the house was ready for them to move in.
Come on, pack your things, well do 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, surprised. We agreed that once the house was built, wed all move in!
Move in? Whos stopping us?! Camille snapped, suddenly haughty toward Pierres mother.
Antonine was so shocked that she fell silent for a few seconds.
Wait, you promised me, she reminded calmly.
Whatever I said before, I dont want to live with you anymore, Camille declared firmly. Well live apart! 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 before hanging up.
Camille heard a few beeps, then hung up, surprised.
Almost immediately 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 ended his call, Camille entered the kitchen. Seeing his angry, upset face, he asked sternly, Whats going on?
Whats wrong? Camille crossed her arms.
My mother called. Shes demanding money
What? Money for what? the young woman was taken aback.
For the house. What did you promise her before the wedding? Live there together? Pierre asked, furrowing his brow.
Nothing, Camille replied, playing dumb.
You approved her house project, didnt you? he pressed.
And then? I approved it before, but now I dont want it anymore, she looked away.
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 snapped.
Well, its finished, so what? Camille shrugged. Whats the problem?
He couldnt answer; his mother called again. He handed the phone to Camille, saying, Here, talk to her.
When Antonine heard her daughterinlaws voice, she launched straight into accusations.
Refund me for the house! she demanded.
What refund? Are you crazy? Camille retorted, irritated.
Because of you we built this house for nothing! Give me half its price!
Half of what? Camille growled.
Five million euros! You owe me five million! Otherwise
What will you do? I never signed any paper! Camille replied slyly.
In that case well cut off all contact with you! the motherinlaw threatened.
Fine! Camille smiled as she ended the call.
Antonine then started demanding money from Pierre, who began sending her fifty thousand euros each month.
Youll only repay me after ten years with that! the mother fumed. Either move into the house or increase the payments.
Since Pierre had no extra cash, he accepted his mothers terms. Camille, however, disapproved, and after six months the couple permanently separated.
