Mother-in-Law Wants to Return to the Countryside After 7 Years Caring for Grandchildren, But Her Daughter-in-Law Says, “Wait 7 More Days”—Here’s the Surprising Reason

I am 65 years old and became a widow in my early 40s. Life as a single mother wasn’t easy, but I decided to stay unmarried to raise my only son. Fortunately, he is now settled, married, and has two wonderful children.

When my son and daughter-in-law moved to the city, I left my hometown to help them. For seven years, I cared for the children, cooked, cleaned, and made sure the household ran smoothly. I never took a salary and only accepted occasional money for trips back to my hometown to handle personal matters. Without a pension or significant savings, I reserved what little I had for old age, hoping not to burden my children.

Now, with both grandchildren attending school, I feel it’s time to return to my quiet countryside life. However, when I told my son and daughter-in-law about my decision, they were visibly upset.

The Discussion

They told me:

“There’s no one left for you in the countryside. Your relatives all have their own families and can’t take care of you. It’s better for you to stay here so we can look after you.”

I replied:

“I understand, but I don’t feel comfortable living in the city anymore. The children are growing up, and you have your own lives. I want to return to my home, keep it from becoming abandoned, and visit occasionally when needed.”

After a pause, my daughter-in-law said:

“If you’re set on going, we won’t stop you, but can you wait just seven more days?”

I was curious but agreed, thinking, If I stayed seven years, seven more days won’t hurt.

The Suspicious Behavior

Over the next seven days, I noticed a change in their behavior. They came home late, spent little time with me or the children, and seemed distant. I couldn’t help but feel hurt. Have they grown tired of me now that I’m leaving?

One night, unable to sleep, I overheard their conversation:

“Is it done yet?”
“Just one more day, and it will be ready.”
“Good, then we can let her leave. Honestly, I’m exhausted.”

Hurt and disappointed, I assumed they were eager to see me go. The next morning, I began packing early. When my son and daughter-in-law saw me, they were surprised:

“Why are you packing already? It’s only been six days.”
I responded coldly:
“Six days are enough. I’ve learned my seven years here meant nothing to you.”

Confused, they pressed me for details. Finally, I revealed what I had overheard. My daughter-in-law explained, teary-eyed:

“You misunderstood us. We’ve been working overtime to finalize something for you—a savings account with 500 million VND (approximately $21,000) in your name. It’s our way of thanking you for everything you’ve done.”

My son added:

“We’re sorry if our actions hurt you. We wanted to surprise you with this account and needed those seven days to complete it. You’ve given us so much, and this is the least we could do.”

Overwhelmed, I opened the savings book, and tears filled my eyes. At that moment, my grandchildren entered, holding a framed family portrait.

“Grandma, we wanted you to wait so we could give you this picture. Take it with you and think of us whenever you miss us.”

A Heartwarming Conclusion

I broke down, feeling both moved and ashamed for doubting them. Their thoughtful gestures reminded me of the love and gratitude they had for me. Suddenly, I wasn’t so eager to leave.

Family is about mutual care and understanding. Their actions reaffirmed the bond we share, making me treasure these seven years even more.