“You Just Go Help Her, I’ll Take Care of the Kids,” Said My Mother-in-Law

I recall those years as if they were only yesterday, though so much time has passed. I spent four years on maternity leave, dutifully caring for my children, who arrived not long after one another. My role as a mother was one I embraced wholeheartedly. My husband worked tirelessly at two jobs, and we were fortunate enough to own our own flat, so we got by.

What had you achieved at twenty-five? my mother-in-law once asked me pointedly. By that age, you ought to have had a careerjust like my daughter, she said with a certain pride.

My sister-in-law, Eleanor, wasnt in any rush to marry. She had ambitions of her own. Her youth and beauty were her first priorities; she didnt intend to sacrifice them for the sake of children, at least not yet. That was her decision, and I had made mine five years before. Truth be told, Eleanors career wasnt thriving. Jealousy seemed to consume her, and she made a habit of spreading idle gossip.

Eleanor loved adventure and didnt miss a chance to travel, take holidays, or live life as she pleased. But then, only last month, she burst through my door in a panic with a favour to ask. Her supervisor was about to go on maternity leave, and they were searching for someone to fill her role. Whoever submitted the most impressive project would be offered the management position. Eleanor had never been particularly skilled with computers, and she was hopelessly out of her depth.

My mother-in-law became insistent. Frankly, I had no idea how I could juggle my children and the demands of creating a work project on top of everything else. But my husbands mother pledged to take on all the housework so I could concentrate on helping Eleanor. In the end, I agreed.

The very next day, my mother-in-law rang: I cant look after the children, I need to travel to the countryside and put up preserves. Youll have to manage as best you can for now.

Not once did Eleanor stop by to lend a hand. I spent nights trying to make progress on the project, but I was exhausted beyond words. I truly wished to help her, but there was just no timeno one had ever offered to care for my own children, even once.

Why isnt it finished yet? You promised! Eleanor shouted at me down the phone.

And you and your mother promised youd help with my children. I had no time at all for a proper job.

Eleanor threw a tantrum and declared she would manage it all herself. Of course, she did nothingthe lure of idleness always bested her, and she failed to win the new position.

Youre dreadful, my mother-in-law scolded, you set a trap for my daughter. Youre simply envious!

I found no need to justify myself to anyone. What mattered most was that my husband understood. He forbade any further contact with his sister. Let her find her own path nowfree and independent, just as she always wanted.