Melissa and her husband are truly attached to their cottage in the English countryside. Yet, according to their daughter-in-law, Emma, there’s little to admire about it. The house lacks modern conveniences, most things are outdoors, and there’s always plenty to be done in the gardens and greenhouse. Still, Melissa and her husband stay there from April all the way through October. If it were up to them, the elderly couple would gladly spend even winter in their country cottage, but that would require investing a lot more into renovations. It would make more sense for them to book a holiday at a seaside resort, Emma often remarks.
About five years ago, Melissa and her husband asked their son and Emma to help them refurbish the cottage. The young couple had a substantial sum in their savings account which they werent planning to use, so they were happy to lend the money to Melissa and her husband.
Melissa and her husband gave their word that theyd repay the loan within two years. Shortly after the money was handed over, Emma gave birth to twins. Throughout this busy time, Melissa was a tremendous help to her daughter-in-law, offering invaluable support and assistance. I honestly cant imagine how I would have coped without my mother-in-laws help, Emma says. She came over every day, even putting her beloved cottage aside. My own mum couldnt provide the same support since she was still working. Meanwhile, during those two years, Melissas husband tended to the land all on his own.
During this period, Melissa frequently started conversations about repaying the loan, reassuring Emma and her son that theyd manage it. However, bit by bit, those discussions fizzled out. Melissas husband was unable to work for a year due to illness, and Melissa herself has been retired for six years. It appears they no longer have the means to pay back the money they borrowed. Emmas friend suggests, Lets just forget about the money. Melissa helped you and the twins so much and brought you homegrown veg and fruit from the country cottage. Her friend adds, I think debts between parents and children only complicate things. But Emmas own mother insists, They borrowed the money. They promised theyd return it.
Caught between the two sides, Emma is unsure what to do next. What would you do?
