Left alone, without my wife, Ive been forced for years to get by solely on my pension. I have grandchildren to think about, I want to support my children, and of course, I still need to eat… So, for years, I hadnt paid my rent. I never imagined the day would come when someone would knock at my door and try to force me out of my flat, nearly taking it away because I couldnt pay.
The first thing I did was ring my daughter, Emily. She was shocked, scolded me, saying I should have spoken up earlier, that she would have helped pay if shed only known. With the situation so dire, she told me I ought to let my flat so that I could settle the rent arrears and move in with them. It felt like a better option than ending up homeless, so I agreed straight away.
Emily picked me up, helped pack my belongings, and brought in an estate agent to start searching for tenants. Over Sunday lunch, I realised my son-in-law, George, knew all about my flat, and not only did he disapprove of my silence, he was openly furious. He snorted at every word I said, making it clear I was barely tolerated in their home. While my grandkids and Emily behaved warmly, glad Id moved in, George snapped at me for every little thingeven to the point where I didnt dare watch anything at all on the television when George was around.
If hes living here now and taking up space, he should at least do something to help out. My mum always pitches in when she visits, so perhaps your dad could tidy up or walk the kids to school, George barked.
Emily replied softly, Dads already helping out. He does homework with them. And while its winter, I dont want him out walking. What if he slips and gets hurt? George muttered, Well, it would make things easier for us.
I felt awkward, a burden. Years ago, my wife and I had let George stay with us for ages. He never helped out around the house, always claiming he was too tired from work, and no one ever said a word about it. It seemed hed forgotten all the kindness we showed him and now, he was keen to get rid of me at any cost. But at least Emily always stood up for me and refused to let anyone treat me unfairly, at least until we sorted out my debts.
