While a couple was in the hospital awaiting the arrival of their baby, they received a helping hand from the woman’s mother-in-law. She volunteered to feed their dogs, which was a gesture the pair deeply appreciated. However, upon their return, they were met with a shocking note stuck to their fridge.

On October 9, 2023, an anonymous woman shared her bewildering experience on the “AITA” subreddit. Here is her full story:

“I recently gave birth to my beautiful son. Unfortunately, there were some complications, so my husband and I were at home when my water broke. Cleaning was obviously not a priority at that moment, so we hurriedly left for the hospital. During our time in the hospital, my mother-in-law kindly offered to feed our dogs, and we were very grateful for her help. It was only when we returned home that I noticed a receipt and note stuck to the fridge. My mother-in-law had cleaned my bedroom carpet and the rest of the house without us asking her to do so. She now wants to be reimbursed for her time, charging us for cleaning products as well.”

While it was nice of her mother-in-law to clean the house, the couple never asked her to do it. They expressed their concerns to her through a text message:

“Hello mom, we really appreciate your help over the last few days while (my name) was in the hospital. It was great having someone to look after the dogs. However, we noticed your note and receipt on the fridge, and we are a little upset. Firstly, we did not inform you about (my name’s) water breaking in the bedroom, and yet, you went through our personal space. Secondly, you went out and bought expensive cleaning products without consulting us. Lastly, you charged us for your time and the products. We are hurt that you would take advantage of this situation while (my name) was unwell. We are family, and we believed you were helping us out of the goodness of your heart.”

The mother-in-law responded, expressing her disbelief that they would be ungrateful for her actions. The couple also received texts from extended family members, defending the mother-in-law’s actions. The situation escalated, causing the couple to turn off their phones to avoid dealing with the hate. The husband suggested paying his mother to placate the extended family and focus on enjoying their time as new parents, but the wife was not okay with that idea.

Now, let’s reflect on what Redditors think about this story.