**Diary Entry**
My daughter-in-law asked me to keep my distanceyet suddenly, it was she who called for help.
After my sons wedding, I visited them as often as I could. I never arrived empty-handedId cook something delicious, bring biscuits, or bake a cake. My daughter-in-law, Emily, always praised my cooking, tasting everything first. It seemed we had a warm, close bond. I was genuinely glad to be useful, to be there for them. Most of all, I was relieved to feel welcomed not as a stranger, but as family.
Then, everything changed. One day, I stopped by while only Emily was home. We had coffee as usual, but I sensed tension in her gaze, as if she wanted to say something but couldnt. When she finally spoke, her words hit me like a blow to the chest.
“It might be better if you didnt come round so often Maybe James should visit you alone,” she said, eyes downcast.
I hadnt expected that. Her voice was cold, and in her eyeswas that irritation? I couldnt tell. After that day, I stayed away. I vanished from their daily life, not wanting to intrude or be a burden. My son came alone when he visited. Emily never appeared at our house again.
I stayed quiet. I didnt complain to anyone. But inside, I curled up with hurt. What had I done wrong? I only wanted to help. All my life, Id tried to keep peace in the family. Now, suddenly, my presence was a nuisance. It stung to know I wasnt wanted.
Time passed. Their child was bornour long-awaited grandson. My husband and I were overjoyed. Even then, we held back: we only visited when invited, took the little one for walks to stay out of the way. We did everything not to impose.
Thenthe call. Emilys voice was quiet, almost matter-of-fact.
“Can you look after the baby today? I need to go out urgently.”
It wasnt a request, just a statement. As if we needed this more than she did. As if wed begged her for the chance. And yet, not long ago, shed asked me not to come at all.
I thought hard about what to do. Pride whispered, *Say no.* But reason said, *This is your opportunity.* Not for herfor my grandson. For James. For family harmony. Still, I answered differently.
“Bring him to ours instead. You didnt want us dropping by uninvited. I wont step into your space unasked.”
She was silent. Then, after a pause, she agreed. She brought the boy over. For my husband and me, it was like a celebration. We played, laughed, went for walkstime flew by. What joy, being grandparents! But beneath it all lingered a bitter aftertaste. I didnt know how to act now.
Should I keep my distance? Wait for her to make the first move? Or be wise and let go of resentment? For my grandson, Id do almost anything. Id forgive, overlook hurtful words, try again.
Butdo they even want me? Does *she*?
I dont know if she understands how easily something built over years can break. Or how painstakingly it must be mended, piece by piece.
