My mother-in-law came over unannounced one afternoon.

She barely set down her purse before she launched into a conversation about how she wanted to redecorate “her son’s house.”

I smiled politely but gently corrected her, “It’s our house.”

She just laughed it off like I’d said something silly, and then kept going.

That’s when she gave me a look—one of those overly sweet smiles that makes you feel like something big is coming.

Then she leaned in a little and said, “Sweetie, I’ve been thinking. Now that the house is so cozy,

maybe I should spend a few nights here each week. It’ll feel like a second home for me.”

I nearly dropped my coffee.

I took a deep breath and reminded myself to stay calm. “

That’s thoughtful of you,” I said gently, “but this house is a special space for just the two of us.

You’ll always be welcome to visit, but living here is something different.”

She tilted her head, considering my words.

For a moment I wasn’t sure how she’d respond.

But then she chuckled and said, “Well,

I suppose I’ll just have to make my own space feel this cozy.

Maybe you can help me redecorate my house instead.”And just like that, the mood lifted.

We ended up spending the afternoon looking through design magazines and sipping tea.

She got excited about redoing her guest room, and I got to keep my peace at home.In the end,

we both found a project to enjoy—just not under the same roof.