Marys parents had given us an exceptionally generous wedding gifta flat! They presented us with the keys, making it official, and told us that we were now the owners. However, as it was a newly built property, they purchased it as a shell from the developer. My mother-in-law remarked that since theyd provided the flat, it was only right that my own parents should help pay for the renovations. My parents had already given us a sizeable sum as a wedding present, but they agreed to support us further and offered to help with the refurbishment as well.
Straight after the wedding, we decided to begin renovating immediately. My father, being a builder by trade, took charge of buying all the supplies, and I was always on hand to lend my help. Occasionally, Mary joined us as well.
At times, even my father-in-law chipped in. We made the decision not to rent a flat until the renovations were finished, hoping to save our pounds and stay with Marys parents for the time being.
One day, as I was searching for some paperwork, my eyes fell upon documents relating to our new home. Something about them struck me as odd and left me feeling quite unsettledfor it turned out, my mother-in-law was listed as the owner!
That very evening, my father and I were meant to go out and purchase tiles for the bathroom, but I asked if we could delay until the following day. I told him what I had found and that I needed to discuss what it could mean.
Why is it that your mum is the owner of the flat and not Mary? I asked bluntly, once everyone was home.
Well, youre being rather naïve, arent you? Of course, it was just to spare Marys feelings, replied my mother-in-law coolly.
And what does that mean?
If you ever divorce, youd no doubt want to take half our flat!
Ours, is it? And what about the work my father and I are putting into the place, work that will cost nearly as much as half the flats value? Why are you so certain we must divorce anyway? Weve only just got married!
Mum, I did ask you to transfer the flat into my name, Mary mumbled.
So you knew about this deception?
Its not what you think Yes, I knew, but I told Mum she ought to put it in my name!
Oh, Mary, what a wonderful start to our marriagerooted in lies!
A few days have passed since I returned to my parents house. I still dont know what I should do now. Mary keeps trying to talk, but I feel I need time to clear my head. I never imagined Id face such duplicity from her family, though perhaps all parents are this way in the end.
What is one to do in such a situation?
