Hope and Scott are grateful for the assistance of their mothers in caring for their son, Miles.

However, when the grandmothers start to vie for attention, tensions rise, and hidden family truths come to light.

When Scott and I welcomed our son Miles into the world, everyone remarked on how fortunate we were to have both of our mothers nearby to lend a hand.

“I’m sorry,” she told Thelma sincerely. “I was bitter, but I shouldn’t have said what I did.”

In a surprising turn, my mother-in-law forgave her.

“It’s a relief, really, Evelyn,” she said while spreading jam on her scone. “I’ve carried this secret for so long, petrified of what would occur if Scott found out. But now it’s out in the open, and he doesn’t resent me.”

Although the truth was painful, it brought us closer together. Scott realized that family is defined not by blood, but by those we choose to love and nurture.

In the end, both grandmothers recognized that they didn’t need to compete; they were crucial parts of Miles’ life. Though that hasn’t stopped the squabbles about which homemade food is best for him or how often he should be carried.

If you enjoyed this narrative, here’s another for you:

At my wedding, my mother-in-law insulted my shy mom by calling her “ugly,” and I couldn’t let it go. My plan for revenge seemed foolproof, but as the consequences unfolded, I realized I might have crossed a line I couldn’t return from.

I stood before the mirror, adjusting my veil for the umpteenth time. My hands trembled—out of nerves, excitement, or perhaps both. Mom approached from behind, her eyes misty.

“You look beautiful, Sophia,” she said gently.

I turned to her, taking in her simple dark dress. “Thanks, Mom. You look lovely too.”

She fiddled with her dress’s hem. “Are you sure it’s not too plain?”

“It’s perfect,” I reassured her. “You are perfect.”