After my father’s passing, I invited my mother to live with us to offer her support and family connection. However, my husband, influenced by his “How to Be a Loving Family Man” course, initially refused but later agreed—with a condition. He insisted my mother pay rent in our own home, saying, “Your mother is a parasite” and claiming, “Once she moves in with us, she’ll never leave.”
His logic was that it wouldn’t be fair for her to live without contributing. This attitude made me realize he viewed our home as a business rather than a shared space. Despite our equal ownership, he treated our house like an Airbnb.
My husband’s disdain for my mother became clear when he admitted, “Your mother has despised me since the day we met. She wouldn’t be comfortable living under the same roof as me.” Now, I’m torn between supporting my mother and preserving my marriage. What should I choose: a room for my mother or my husband’s empathy?
