My future mother-in-law called off our wedding, blaming my illness on infidelity
Until recently, my life felt like a fairy tale. I had a loving fiancé, felt the excitement of possibly becoming a mother, and was eagerly planning our wedding. But one visit to the hospital shattered everything I cherished, leaving me in a void of despair.
My fiancé, Andrew, and I were making plans for the future: we had rented a cozy flat in Brighton and were dreaming of our wedding. We spent our evenings together, relishing each other’s quiet company. A month before the big day, I began experiencing morning sickness. My heart hinted that it might be the miracle I had hoped for. I wanted to surprise Andrew with the news, to give him a moment of pure happiness. I decided to visit my parents to share the joy with my mum.
During the taxi ride, I felt dizzy but brushed it off as mere fatigue. At home, my mother brewed chamomile tea, which provided some relief, but that night, a fever consumed me as if fire raged within. Despite my protests, my mum summoned the doctor, who, after examining me, turned pale and delivered the shocking news:
— You must be admitted at once. Suspected ectopic pregnancy.
His words were like a bolt from the blue. I had so wished to bring a child to Andrew, and now, the dream crumbled into dust, leaving only fear and pain.
I awoke in a hospital room post-surgery, where a weary doctor gave me a sympathetic look.
— I’m sorry, my dear. We barely saved you.
It was only upon discharge that I understood his apology. They had saved my life, but the dream of becoming a mother was snatched away for good. I couldn’t bear to tell Andrew the truth — the fear that he might turn away upon learning I could never give him children gripped my throat. Especially since he adored kids! At home, I lied, claiming I’d had a routine check-up. I’m not sure if he believed me, but his mother, Margaret, was certainly suspicious.
A week before the wedding, Andrew and I planned to take time off work to relax before the celebrations. But work demanded our attention — I was wrapped up in a crucial project while Andrew managed things at home. Finally, I came home early, anticipating his welcoming smile. But as I crossed the threshold, I overheard a chilling conversation. Margaret’s voice echoed:
— I told you, she still sneaks around with that Steve! She’s been in gynecology for a week, and you’re unfazed!
— Mum, it was just a check-up… — Andrew tried to counter.
— Wake up, will you? She had an abortion! A botched one at that. I’m a woman; I know why they hospitalize someone. You need to cancel the wedding. It’ll be a disgrace!
The room spun as the words hit me, and I fainted. When I came to, Andrew and Margaret were there. She forced a smile:
— You’re awake, dear? Have some sweet tea. You and Andrew need to chat. I’ll leave you to it.
Paralyzed by horror, Andrew spoke up immediately:
— Lucy, how are you feeling? We need to talk. The wedding will have to be postponed. You’re too weak now. Get better, and then we’ll marry.
— Andrew, are you kidding me? It’s not my health you’re concerned about…
— What do you mean?
— I heard your conversation! Do you think I had an abortion because I was unfaithful?
He averted his eyes, which was worse than words.
— I love you, and I’m willing to forgive. Everyone makes mistakes. But I need time.
— Forgive?! I never cheated on you! I had an ectopic pregnancy, nearly died! I hid it to spare you. And now you’re leaving me over your mother’s nonsense?
— I know Steve still loves you. He told me so. Perhaps you gave in to old feelings…
— That never happened!
— Then why didn’t you tell me about the diagnosis?
— I was afraid of losing you! Now I can’t give you a child!
— Lucy, I’m sorry, but I don’t believe you. I need time to think. Let’s postpone the wedding. I’ll stay at my parents’.
He packed and left without a glance back. My pain, my health — it was of little concern to him. Imagined suspicions consumed him. It was over. My world crumbled overnight.
With him back at his parents’ place, Margaret will surely poison his mind further. I’m left alone — without my fiancé, without a child, without hope. How do I carry on when everything I loved has turned to ash? I have no idea.
