I was shocked to learn that I was the subject of a conversation between my mother-in-law and my husband that I had accidentally overheard.
Although she resided in the country, my mother-in-law lately had some business in the city. She requested if she could spend a few days with us over the phone. We agreed, of course—it was just a typical family issue, nothing out of the ordinary.
Everything began quite quietly. We had dinner together in the evening, after which I showered in the restroom. My husband and his mother remained in the room, having a good conversation. I didn’t give it much thought.
However, after turning on the water, I realized that I had neglected to grab a fresh towel from the bedroom. I had to return. I made an effort to move silently so as not to interrupt their talk. However, I heard their voices as soon as I got close to the door. After that, I had a weird impression that my mother-in-law was talking about me in a low, nearly whispery voice.
— Son, did you follow my instructions exactly?
Yes, Mom, my husband said in a low voice.
— And she has no suspicions?
— She’s not intelligent enough, no.
— Recognize that this is crucial for our family. You have to follow my instructions to the letter.
I clutched the towel to my chest as I froze in the doorway. I wasn’t sure what it was about at first. Perhaps I had misheard, or I assumed it was something insignificant. However, it grew colder inside of me the more they spoke. Then I abruptly understood what they were talking about, and I fled the room in horror.
They were discussing me. Regarding my credulity. The most terrifying thing is concerning my house. As it happened, my spouse had been sneaking documents for me to sign all along.
I assumed they were just standard documents, such as contracts, bills, and minor domestic affairs. In actuality, however, property documents were also among them. We moved into my house, which I had inherited from my parents.
I found out that my husband’s sister was experiencing severe financial difficulties. And he and my mother-in-law concluded that selling my house was the wisest course of action.
Furthermore, I was never meant to learn the specifics of how this would occur. Everything appeared to be well-planned, and my own spouse was involved.
I felt the world crumble beneath me as I stood still, taking in every word. I feared they would hear my heart thumping through the door because it was so loud.
It dawned on me then that my life would never be the same.
