Well, That’s a Right Proud Anastasia You’ve Become! They Say Money Changes People, But I Had No Idea…

Well, Emmas gotten awfully stuck-up these days! People say money can really change a person!
I truly dont understand whats going on, or how Ive offended anyone.

Not so long ago, I had a wonderful marriage. My husband and I had two lovely children. Then, one day, life turned upside down. My beloved was driving home from work, and he had a terrible accident. I thought Id never survive the grief, but my mum kept telling me that I had to hold it together for the kids. So I picked myself up, worked hard, and when the kids grew older, I headed abroad to earn a living, trying to support them any way I could since I had nobody else to rely on.

First I ended up in France, and then, eventually, I found myself in London. I had to switch jobs countless times before I finally started earning a decent wage. Every month, I sent money back for the children, bought them each a flat over time, and did up my place nicely as well. I felt quite proud of myself. Id begun planning to move back to Manchester for good, but last year everything changedI met someone. His name is John, and although hes English through and through, hes been living in London for over two decades. We started spending time together, and I began to think it might go somewhere.

Still, doubts kept bothering me. John couldnt imagine moving to Manchester, but I yearned for home. I returned home a few days ago. First, I saw the children, then popped round to see Mum and Dad. But I simply couldnt find the time to visit my late husbands parents. There was just too much to sort out, so many things had piled up. One afternoon, my friend Sarah, who works as a shop assistant, came for tea and shared something with me:

Your mother-in-law really has a grudge against you!

Where did you hear that?

I overheard her talking with a neighbour. She said youve become snobbish and money has gone to your head. And she insists you never even supported them, financially or otherwise.

Listening to this stung more than I expected. All these years, Id raised two children on my own and done everything for them. I honestly couldn’t afford to help my in-laws too. I had to look out for myself as welldo you know what I mean?

After hearing it, I had little desire to see my in-laws, but eventually, I convinced myself to go. I bought a bunch of groceries and went over. At first, everything seemed fine, but I couldnt shake the words I’d heard from Sarah. Eventually, I just spoke up:

I hope you realise these years haven’t been easy for me. Ive done everything for the kids since I had no one to turn to.

Weve had no help either, my mother-in-law replied. Everyone else has children who lend a hand, but were on our own. We could do with some help ourselves! You ought to have moved back and supported us.

Her words left me feeling ashamed. I couldnt even bring myself to mention that I had a partner in London now. I left feeling utterly downcast. I dont know what to do. Am I really supposed to take care of my late husbands parents too? Im reaching my limit.