My son, Michael, surprised me with a cottage in the countryside, but when we got there, I realized it was all a trick. After a while, I discovered the real reason why he did this, and I still can’t forgive him. What would you do?
Hello! My name is Richard, and I’m 68 years old. I never thought I’d be asking strangers for advice, but here I am. I need some outside perspective on this.
For some background: I’ve been a single dad for most of my adult life. My wife, Emma, passed away from cancer when our son, Michael (currently 35 years old), was just ten years old.
It was a difficult time for both of us, but we managed to pull through together.
Since then, it’s been just the two of us against the world. I did my best to be both mother and father to him, working hard to give him every opportunity I could.
Growing up, Michael was a good kid. He had his moments of rebellion, sure, but overall, he was kind, hardworking, and seemed to have a good head on his shoulders.
He did well in school, went to college on a partial scholarship, and landed a good job in finance after graduation.
I’ve always been immensely proud of him, watching him grow into what I thought was a successful adult.
We remained close even after he moved out, talking on the phone regularly and having dinner together at least once a week.
That’s why what happened over a year ago came as such a shock.
It was a Tuesday evening when Michael came to my house, brimming with excitement. “Dad,” he said, “I’ve got amazing news! I bought you a cottage in the countryside!”
“A cottage? Michael, what are you talking about?“
“It’s perfect, Dad. It’s peaceful, serene, and just what you need. You’re going to love it!”
I was taken aback. Move to a cottage far from here? That seemed like too much. “Michael, you didn’t have to do that. I’m perfectly happy here.”
But he insisted! “No, Dad, you deserve it. The house you’re in now is TOO BIG FOR YOU ALONE. It’s time for a change. Trust me, this is going to be great for you.”
I have to admit, I was skeptical. The house I was living in had been our family home for over 30 years. It was where Michael grew up, where Emma and I had built our life together.
But my son seemed so excited, so sure that this was the right move. And I trusted him completely. After all, we’d always been honest with each other.
So, against my better judgment, I agreed to move and sell my house.
The next few days, I was packing and preparing to leave, while Michael handled most of the details. He assured me that everything was taken care of.
He was being so helpful that I pushed aside my lingering doubts.
Finally, the day came for us to drive to my new home. As we got in the car, Michael was chatting away about all the amenities this new place had.
But as we drove further and further from the city, I started feeling uneasy. The scenery became more and more desolate. It wasn’t woodsy or hillside.
Our familiar neighbor and the bustling streets of the city were gone and all that was left were empty, ugly fields, and even an abandoned farm.
The cottages nearby, which Michael knew I had admired and considered buying when his mother was alive, were cozy, homey places, surrounded by nature. This was the opposite.
“Michael,” I wondered, “are you sure we’re going the right way? This doesn’t look like cottage country to me.”
He assured me we were on the right track, but I noticed he wouldn’t quite meet my eyes.
After about another hour of driving, we turned onto a long, winding driveway. At the end of it stood a large, boring building.
My heart sank as I read the sign: “Sunset Haven.”
This wasn’t a cottage. It was a nursing home.
I turned to Michael, trying to quell my emotions. “What is this? What’s going on?”
“Dad,” he said, but couldn’t even look me in the eyes. “I’m sorry. I know I said it was a cottage, but… this is better for you. You’ll be taken care of here.”
“Taken care of? I don’t need to be taken care of! I’m perfectly capable of living on my own. Why would you lie to me?“
“Dad, please.” Michael finally turned to me, and his eyes were pleading. “You’ve been forgetting things lately. I’m worried about you living alone. This place has great facilities, and there will always be someone around if you need help.”
“Forgetting things? Everyone forgets things sometimes!” I yelled, and angry tears fell from my eyes. “This isn’t right, Michael. Take me home right now.”
Michael shook his head and dropped the real bombshell of the day. “I can’t do that, Dad. I’ve… I’ve already sold the house.”
I felt like the ground had disappeared from under me. I knew I had agreed to sell, but I had all the time in the world. I wanted to meet the new owners, pick a nice family, and hell, tell them exactly how to care for the old Elm tree in the yard.
How could he have sold it without my knowledge or consent?
I demanded answers, but Michael was evasive. He mentioned something about having power of attorney and doing what was best for me.
I shut down after that, and the next few hours were a blur.
Somehow, I ended up checked into Sunset Haven and was led to a small room with a narrow bed and a window overlooking a parking lot.
The walls were a sickly shade of beige, and the air smelled of disinfectant and old people.
My old home retained the scent of my wife’s cinnamon coffee cake, and I never changed her decor choices. My only upgrades were new appliances when needed, and Michael had given me an Alexa.
But now, this sad, clinical place was my new home.
I couldn’t do anything about it, either. I thought about Michael’s words while I spent the next few days in shock and anger. Was I so far gone that I forgot everything?
Was this the right thing? Had I caused Michael harm? Had I been diagnosed with dementia or something?
I couldn’t imagine any of that, but Michael’s parting look of guilt and concern left me dubious.
The staff at Sunset Haven were kind enough, and they tried to engage me in activities to make me feel welcome. But I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was wrong.
It was during an afternoon of more stewing in my feelings that I overheard a conversation that made everything even worse.
I was sitting in the common room, pretending to read a magazine, when I heard two nurses talking in hushed tones nearby.
“Poor Mr. Johnson,” one of them said. “Did you hear about his son?”
“No, what happened?”
“Apparently, he had some pretty big gambling debts. That’s why he sold his dad’s house and put him in here.”
I felt like I’d been punched in the gut. Gambling debts? Was that the real reason behind all of this? Had my son sold me out, quite literally, to cover his own mistakes?
I was even more devastated.
The son I’d raised, the boy I thought I knew better than anyone, had discarded me for selfish reasons.
I thought back to all the times I’d helped him out of tight spots, all the sacrifices I’d made to give him a good life.
Luckily, fate intervened in the form of an old friend. Jack, a lawyer I’d known for years, came to Sunset Haven to visit his sister and was shocked to find me there.
When I told him what happened, he was outraged. He offered to look into the legality of what Michael had done.
It turned out that the sale of my house had been rushed, with several legal corners cut in the process. With Jack’s help, I was able to contest the sale.
After a long battle that ended with Michael having to return the money he took from the buyers and pay all the legal fees, I finally got my home back and moved out of Sunset Haven.
Now, here’s where I need advice.
My son has been trying to apologize. He showed up at my house last week, and I hardly recognized him. He looked terrible, like he hadn’t slept or eaten properly in weeks.
When I let him in, he broke down.
He told me how he’d started gambling to cope with stress at work, how things had spiraled out of control, and how he’d convinced himself that selling my house and putting me in a home was the best solution for everyone.
He swore he’d been getting help for his addiction and was committed to making things right.
“I was wrong, Dad,” he sobbed. “So wrong. Can you ever forgive me?“
Part of me wants to let bygones be bygones. He’s my son, and we only have each other in this world. But another part of me is still so angry and hurt.
How can I trust him again after what he did? He lied to me, manipulated me, and stole my home to cover up his own mistakes.
Even if he’s truly sorry now, how do I know he won’t do something like this again in the future?
What would you do in my place?
This work is inspired by real events and people, but it has been fictionalized for creative purposes. Names, characters, and details have been changed to protect privacy and enhance the narrative. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental and not intended by the author.
The author and publisher make no claims to the accuracy of events or the portrayal of characters and are not liable for any misinterpretation. This story is provided “as is,” and any opinions expressed are those of the characters and do not reflect the views of the author or publisher.
My MIL Ruined My Wedding Dress during the Ceremony, but Karma Hit Her Back Immediately
My MIL Ruined My Wedding Dress during the Ceremony, but Karma Hit Her Back Immediately
the My mother-in-law (MIL) tried all she could to separate me and her son from each other because she didn’t approve of me. On the day of our wedding, my MIL pulled a stunt I couldn’t forgive, and karma quickly came for her in unexpected ways! She respects me today!
An upset and stressed out bride | Source: Pexels
Hi everyone! I’ve got a shocking story to share that still gets me quite upset when I think about it. Here’s my tale. My husband, Josh, and I have been together for five years, and his mother, Samantha, has always been against me.
The reason for her negative feelings towards me is due to my background. Unfortunately for her, I came from an ordinary family. The poor woman had high hopes that Josh would get what she described as a “better” match and planned a top-notch partner for him.
An arrogant woman dressed in a gown, and sunglasses while holding a cat | Source: Pexels
At first, her disapproval of me manifested in seemingly innocent and minor things. Like she would “forget” to congratulate me on my birthday or not invite me to family dinners. Then, it got harsher when Josh was going to propose to me.
My mother-in-law (MIL) discovered the date through my sister-in-law (SIL), Megan. On that evening during our romantic dinner, Samantha called Josh. She claimed to have had a heart attack and needed him immediately by her side.
A satisfied-looking woman holding a phone | Source: Pexels
“Josh, it’s your mother. I need you right now!” Samantha’s voice trembled over the phone. Josh’s face turned pale, but his phone buzzed again. Megan’s message popped up: “She’s faking it. Don’t fall for it!”
“Are you sure?” Josh texted back quickly.
“Yes, she’s sitting here eating ice cream and watching TV,” Megan replied. Thanks to that heads-up, he didn’t fall for Samantha’s trick! We managed to have a lovely romantic dinner and a beautiful engagement, knowing his mother was faking her condition to get his attention.
A happy couple having a romantic night | Source: Pexels
The months leading up to the wedding were a nightmare. Samantha did everything she could to sabotage our plans. She complained about the venue, criticized my dress, and even tried to convince Josh to call the whole thing off!
“Josh, do you really think she’s the RIGHT ONE for you?” Samantha would say, her tone dripping with condescension. “You could do so much better.”
“Mom, I love her. That’s all that matters,” Josh would reply, trying to keep his cool.
An upset man and older woman not getting along | Source: Freepik
I thought my husband’s mother would relent, but then she showed up uninvited to my bridal shower! The woman made a scene, accusing me of trying to steal her son away and ruining his life!
“You’re nothing but a gold-digger!” she screamed in front of all my friends and family.
“Samantha, you need to leave now,” my maid of honor, Sarah, said firmly, stepping in to protect me. It seemed my MIL’s actions were becoming more desperate, but I didn’t expect what she would do next!
An angry woman shouting | Source: Freepik
Fast forward to our wedding day. I hoped she had put up with the fact that her son had chosen me. BUT NO! In the middle of our wedding vows, she INTERRUPTED, claiming she had a “surprise” for me.
“I have a special gift for the bride!” Samantha announced with a sinister smile. Before anyone could react, she splashed a full bottle of red paint all over my dress. “What the hell, Mom?!” Josh screamed, his voice echoing through the hall.
A shocked and upset bride with red paint on her dress | Source: Midjourney
I stood there in shock, my gorgeous gown ruined! I couldn’t say a word and was in shock. But Josh started screaming at her, demanding she leave immediately. “You’ve gone too far this time, Mom! Get out! Now!” he shouted.
Samantha was escorted out by a few guests who had seen enough of her antics. The ceremony continued, but the mood had been dampened. I tried to put on a brave face, but inside, I was devastated.
A frustrated and upset groom at his wedding | Source: Pexels
After the ceremony, we decided to skip the reception and head straight to our honeymoon suite. Josh was FURIOUS, pacing back and forth in our room. “I can’t believe she did that,” he muttered. “I’m so sorry, babe. This was supposed to be the happiest day of our lives.”
“It’s not your fault,” I said, trying to comfort him. “She’s the one who ruined it.” Now, you might think that’s where the story ends, but oh no. Karma was quick and had something else in store for Samantha!
An unhappy woman comforting an upset man | Source: Pexels
A few weeks later, I learned that my MIL had a grand gala planned at her home. It was a charity event, and she had invited the crème de la crème of society. She was always so proud of her pristine house and immaculate garden.
This event was supposed to be the highlight of her social calendar. I decided it was time for a little payback. I contacted a few friends who owned a landscaping company and made a deal with them.
A happy woman talking on the phone | Source: Pexels
“Are you sure about this?” my friend Jake asked, grinning. “Absolutely! It’s time she learns her lesson,” I replied. The night before the gala, Samantha got what she deserved. Jake’s company “accidentally” mixed up addresses.
They delivered a truckload of manure to my MIL’s manicured lawn. The team then spread it all over. They ensured every inch of her precious garden was covered in the most pungent fertilizer imaginable!
A wheelbarrow with fertilizer on a garden | Source: Pixabay
The next morning, the smell was unbearable! Guests started arriving for the gala, only to be greeted by the overwhelming stench of manure. My MIL was mortified! She tried to salvage the event, but no amount of perfume or air fresheners could mask the smell.
“Welcome to my…” Samantha began. “Oh, dear lord!” one guest exclaimed, covering their nose. “Samantha, what on earth happened here?” another whispered, horrified. Guests left in disgust, and my MILl’s reputation took a serious hit!
A distressed woman covering her nose and mouth | Source: Pexels
But that wasn’t all! A few days after the gala incident, my MIL received a call from the local health department. “We’ve received a complaint about improper manure disposal,” the officer stated.
“What?! From whom?!” Samantha shrieked! Josh and I were upstairs trying to help her deal with the aftermath of the gala and came running down. With tears in her eyes, she told us what happened. “Is that so? I wonder who could have reported that,” I said with a smirk.
A sad-looking woman drinking a beverage while seated on a couch | Source: Pexels
“Someone” had reported her for improper manure disposal. It resulted in a hefty fine and a mandatory cleanup crew that tore up her garden, leaving it in shambles. I might have tipped them off anonymously, but hey, sometimes you have to play dirty to get justice.
The icing on the cake was that I ensured the local newspaper got wind of the story! They ran a piece about the “Gala Gone Wrong.” In it they detailed how the host’s meticulous planning was ruined by a mysterious manure delivery. Samantha’s name was the talk of the town, and not in a good way!
A classy woman reading a newspaper | Source: Pexels
To add another twist, my husband and I decided to take a delayed honeymoon. We wanted to spend some quality time away from all the drama. We chose a beautiful tropical destination. While we were gone, I hired a local artist to create a stunning mural on our garage door.
The mural featured a vibrant red wedding dress. It was my way of reclaiming the color red. A way for me to turn it into something beautiful rather than a symbol of Samantha’s vindictiveness.
A beautiful mural of a red dress on a garage door | Source: Midjourney
When we returned, my MIL’s face was priceless when she saw the mural! “What is this supposed to be?” she snapped, pointing at the garage. Josh just laughed and told her, “It’s a symbol of our strength and resilience as a couple.”
When she confronted me, accusing me of orchestrating the whole thing, I smiled. “It’s funny how things work out sometimes, isn’t it?” I replied. From that day on, Samantha never tried to sabotage our relationship again. She knew better than to mess with me.
A shocked woman looking at something | Source: Pexels
But there was one more thing I had planned. To ensure she understood the full extent of her actions, I organized a family intervention. With Josh’s help, we gathered everyone at our house. This included Megan, Sarah, and a few close friends who had seen Samantha’s behavior over the years.
“Samantha, we need to talk,” Josh began, his tone serious. “Your actions have hurt us deeply, and it’s time you faced the consequences.”
“What is this, some kind of ambush?” my MIL sneered, crossing her arms.
An upset woman looking at someone | Source: Pexels
“It’s an intervention,” I said calmly. “We’re here to make you understand how your behavior affects everyone.” One by one, our friends and family shared their experiences and feelings about Samantha’s manipulative actions.
Tears shed, voices rose, and Samantha’s defenses began to crumble. “You’ve treated me like an outsider from day one,” I said, my voice trembling. “But no more. We deserve better.”
A woman crying | Source: Pexels
“I never meant to hurt anyone,” my MIL said quietly, her eyes downcast. “I wanted what’s best for Josh.”
“What’s best for me is to be happy with the woman I love,” Josh said firmly. “And if you can’t accept that, then you’re the one who’s going to be left out.” Samantha finally broke down, realizing the impact of her actions.
She apologized to everyone and promised to change.
A woman crying | Source: Pexels
Whether she would truly follow through was yet to be seen, but for the first time, I felt a glimmer of hope. After the intervention, things slowly began to improve. Samantha made an effort to be more involved in our lives without being overbearing.
She even offered to help replace my wedding dress. A small step towards mending our relationship. The lesson here? Don’t start a fight you can’t finish. Thanks for reading! Sometimes, karma needs a little nudge to set things right!
A happy woman smiling while enjoying the sun | Source: Pexels
While Josh’s mother initially didn’t approve of his bride, in the following story, Alex’s father disapproved of his desire to be a chef. The parent badly wanted his son to follow the family trade that he even tried to sabotage him. However, karma was on Alex’s side! Click here to read all the shocking details!
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