I HAD SAVED EVERY PENNY FOR OUR DREAM HOME, BUT THEN MY HUSBAND’S PARENTS EXPECTED IT ALL
Arabella had spent years saving every penny for her dream home, putting in long hours and making sacrifices. She never imagined that her own in-laws would turn around and try to claim her savings for themselves.
The realization that her marriage was built on shaky ground didn’t come when Nathan ignored her pleas to save, or when he spent his time gaming while she worked extra shifts.
No, it hit her hard the night his parents showed up, ready to take what was hers. For three years, Arabella had sacrificed.
She skipped vacations, brought PB&Js for lunch while her colleagues dined out, and worked overtime to build up the savings. All of that, and Nathan’s parents were now demanding it for their own purposes.
“We know how much you’ve saved,” Barbara said, tapping her perfectly manicured nails on the arm of the couch. “Nathan told us.”
Christian smirked from the other side of the room. “Since you’ve got all this cash, why not keep it in the family?” Arabella was taken aback, trying to process the words.
Barbara waved her off. “Don’t act so clueless, dear. Remember when we let you stay with us after the wedding? You owe us.” Arabella’s face flushed with anger.
“Owe you? I cooked, cleaned, and paid my share of the expenses. You didn’t do me any favors!” Barbara dismissed her response with a flick of her wrist. “That doesn’t count.”
Arabella’s eyes shifted to Nathan, hoping he would step in and defend her. But instead, he simply grinned. “Since the money is there, maybe I should buy myself a motorcycle,” he suggested, his tone casual.
“Everyone wins, right? I get my bike, and Mom and Dad get their new house.” Arabella’s blood ran cold. “And what do I get out of this?” Barbara dismissed her with a wave. “You help out your family.”
That was it. Arabella stood her ground. “This money is mine. I’ve worked hard for it, and I saved it for our future home, not for Nathan’s toy or for you to get a bigger house.”
Nathan tried to argue, claiming that the fund was a joint account. He warned her that if she didn’t agree, he’d transfer the money by the end of the week. Arabella smiled, knowing she had a plan.
The next morning, she called in sick to work, went straight to the bank, and moved her savings into a new account. Later that day, she met with a lawyer named Sandra, who praised her for protecting her money.
“Now, let’s discuss your next steps,” Sandra said. Arabella kept all her documents organized, ensuring she had proof of her savings. She played it cool for the rest of the week, pretending nothing was wrong.
Nathan, oblivious to her plan, kept mentioning motorcycles and asking if she’d transferred the money yet.
On Friday, Barbara and Christian returned, eager for an update. “Well? Is it done?” they asked. Nathan leaned in, touching her shoulder. “Did you transfer it?”
Arabella calmly replied, “No, I didn’t.” The room fell silent. Christian’s voice dropped low. “What do you mean?” “I mean I didn’t transfer it—and I won’t.”
Nathan grabbed his phone, checking their account. His face went pale. “It’s… empty.” Barbara’s eyes blazed with fury. “What did you do?” Arabella’s voice was steady.
“I protected it—from people who think they’re entitled to my hard work.” Nathan turned red. “That’s my money too!” Arabella laughed, her voice sharp.
“Really? Show me one pay stub, one contribution you’ve made.” Christian jabbed a finger at her. “We let you live in our house!” Arabella stood her ground.
“You charged us rent. And I did all the housework. We’re even.” Then, with a cool, measured motion, Arabella pulled out a manila envelope, pressing it into Nathan’s chest. “I didn’t just move the money—I’m leaving you.”
His grip on the envelope tightened. “Divorce? Fine! I’ll take every cent you owe us.” Arabella smirked. “You’re welcome to try. I have three years of proof that I paid for everything while you spent your money on hobbies.”
Nathan hesitated, opening the divorce papers in his hands. His parents stared in disbelief. Barbara sneered. “You’re divorcing over money?” Arabella’s eyes were cold.
“No. I’m divorcing because you all tried to steal from me.” Grabbing her suitcase, Arabella moved toward the door. Nathan was speechless. “You packed already?”
Arabella didn’t look back. “Yes. I’ve wasted enough time with someone who’s a walking red flag. You should’ve seen this coming.” Panic crossed Nathan’s face as he tried to backpedal.
“Wait, Bella! We can talk about this—maybe we were too harsh—” Arabella cut him off, holding up the divorce papers. “No amount of talking will change my mind. Read these carefully, or have your lawyer call mine.”
As she walked toward the door, Barbara shrieked. “Where do you think you’re going? You can’t just walk away!” Arabella turned to face them, her posture firm and confident. “Watch me.”
With her head held high, she stepped out into the fresh air, her future once again in her hands, her dream home fund safe.
Though she’d have to find a new place to live, she knew it wouldn’t be hard now that she was free from the burden of an irresponsible husband.
