Helen, my mother-in-law, always compared me to Lisa, my husband’s ex-wife, but a shocking discovery… Helen, my mother-in-law, always compared me to Lisa, my husband’s ex-wife, but a shocking discovery at her birthday celebration changed everything around. Helen and I couldn’t believe what we heard.
I cuddled with Tom, my two-year-old spouse, on the sofa. His embrace made me feel secure and cherished. We spoke about our days and our futures in the evenings.
Tom presented an amusing work anecdote, making the group chuckle. Watching his joyous eyes made me grin. These moments reminded me how fortunate I was to find him.
“I still can’t believe you did that,” I laughed. “You’re silly.”
He laughed, drawing me in. Just you, Sophie. Just for you.”
Our little living room seemed like a palace because of our love. Walls were plastered with travel images, and shelves housed literature we wanted to read together. Our small refuge, where nothing could harm our delight.
We smelled food from the kitchen as we seated. I cooked Tom’s favorite cheesy spaghetti. My favorite thing was cooking for him. Seeing him smile made it all worthwhile.
Tom checked the time. Dinner should be ready shortly. Need me to set the table?
Shaking my head. You relax. I’ll handle it.”
He grinned and kissed my forehead quickly. “You know you’re amazing?”
I flushed. “I try.”
We just needed each other. Tom had a difficult divorce, but we made something wonderful together.
Helen, Tom’s mother, visited a few days later, shattering that tranquility. In the kitchen, I stirred soup.
Helen stayed at the table, observing me. She constantly watched me, making me feel judged.
Helen said, “Lisa used to make this dish so well. She always ended with a sprinkle of parsley. Made all the difference.”
I tightened my teeth and smiled politely. That’s lovely, Helen. That will be noted.”
Helen sighed loudly. I don’t understand why you never consider recipe improvement like Lisa. She always improved everything!”
Her words hurt. My efforts were never enough for Helen. She appeared unaware that Lisa was no longer Tom’s wife. Instead, she pampered her like a culinary queen I could never equal.
I focused on the pot while cooking to avoid cracking. Tom entered the kitchen, feeling tension. He grinned at me before looking to his mom.
Sophie cooks well, mom. He answered confidently, “I love everything she makes.”
Helen waved and huffed. “You’d say that, Tom. Lisa had a unique touch.”
Tom received a grateful glance.
He always defended me, but Helen’s remarks stung.
“I’m trying my best, Helen,” I said to stop the discussion.
Shaking her head. “Your best should be better.”
Helen’s Lisa parallels exhausted me. Though I liked Tom, dealing with his parents was difficult.
I knew Tom would back me. Must be enough. A family supper at Helen’s challenged that strength.
The supper was enjoyed by everybody at the table. The talk returned to food, and Helen joined in.
“By the way, try adding thyme to the pasta!” she said. Lisa did that, and it was great. It thrilled Tom!”
My cheeks burned. The dinner proceeded, but I scarcely tasted anything. After dinner, I inhaled and asked Helen to talk alone.
To avoid others, we went to the living room.
“Helen,” I said calmly, “I need to talk to you about something important.”
She crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow at me. Sophie, what is it?
“I understand you were close to Lisa, and I respect that,” I added. “But comparing me to her hurts. It affects my marriage to Tom. I adore and try for him. I need your understanding.”
Helen tensed up. “Don’t tell me what to do, Sophie!” she railed. “You won’t direct my actions.”
I held my ground despite her hurtful comments. Helen, I’m not disrespectful. I want you to know how your remarks make me feel. I want a nice connection with you, but I hate being compared to Lisa.”
Helen squinted. “I considered Lisa my daughter. You’ll never get that.”
I blinked away tears. You don’t have to forget Lisa. Please be nice and understanding!”
She turned aside, upset. “I’ll think about it,” she snapped, leaving.
I was wounded that day. All I wanted was her love and respect. Was it too much to ask?
A few days later, Helen invited all her family and friends to a lavish birthday celebration. The home was full with laughing and talk, which generally made me feel welcome. Tonight was different.
I had a knot in my stomach when Tom and I arrived. Helen was at her best during the celebration, surrounded by her fans. I focused on surviving the evening and attempted to calm down.
As we entered, I saw someone I didn’t anticipate. Lisa stood speaking with visitors.
Heart plummeted. Tom looked equally s.h.oc.ked.
Helen came over with a smug smirk after seeing our response. Oh, I forgot to mention? I invited Lisa. It would be good for her to see everyone!”
Forced a grin. I appreciate your thoughtfulness, Helen.
I mingled with the visitors and tried to enjoy myself to avoid ruining my evening. I concentrated on talks and reminded myself that I was there for Tom and Helen’s special day.
Dinnertime arrived, and we gathered at the large, elegant table. Helen encouraged Lisa to sit with us, which disappointed me. I hid my anger and smiled politely.
Lisa sat across from me, looking uneasy.
Lisa remarked, “Sophie, I’ve heard a lot about you. Glad to meet.”
I nodded neutrally. “Nice to meet you, Lisa.”
As the night ended, Helen’s husband George stepped up to toast. The room became silent as everyone focused on him. I prepared for another round of greetings when he lifted his glass.
Instead, George spoke seriously.
“I have something important to share,” he said, anxiously scanning the crowd. I had a lover for five years. Though it may not be the proper moment, I can’t keep Helen in the dark. That lover is Clara, my ex-wife.”
The room became silent from shock.
My mouth dropped, and I looked at Helen. Disbelief made her pale and her eyes wide.
George faced the visitors and said, “I can’t keep living a lie.” “I’m leaving you to be with Clara.”
The room went crazy. Helen wept. Some guests comforted Helen as they spoke and screamed.
I remembered Helen’s severe treatment of me then. I kept thinking about how karma caught up with individuals. Besides feeling for her, I felt a weird sense of justice.
Tom and I glanced. We didn’t need to say anything—we understood we had to go. We left the celebration early, holding hands.
“I’m sorry you had to go through that,” he whispered.
Shaking my head. It’s not your fault. Just grateful we have each other.”
Tom hugged me when we came home. Sophie, I adore you. Never question that.”
I embraced him back, thankful for his love and support. I adore you, Tom. I know we’ll always be together.”
Despite everything, I thought we could handle anything. I knew we would be OK as long as we had each other.