My Husband Gave Me A Train Ticket For Our Honeymoon While He Flew, But When He Reached The Airport..

A Professional Opinion

Finally, I stood up, determined to get some answers. I approached the nurse’s station and tried to keep my professional tone. “Excuse me,” I said to the doctor nearby. “I’m Emily, Shirley Johnson’s future daughter-in-law. Could you tell me about her condition?”

The doctor looked up, his face calm. “Mrs. Johnson’s blood pressure is high but not dangerously so. We’re keeping an eye on her, but there’s no immediate reason to worry.”

I let out a breath, thinking about what to say next. “Doctor, I’m a psychologist, and I’m concerned that Mrs. Johnson might be dealing with some mental health issues. Has anyone looked into that?”

The doctor raised his eyebrows, slightly surprised. “That’s an interesting point. We haven’t done a mental health evaluation, but based on what you’ve said, it might be worth considering. I’ll make a note to refer her for an assessment.”

I nodded, thankful for his understanding. “Thank you, Doctor. I appreciate your help.”

I went back to my seat in the hallway, waiting, hoping Ryan would come out soon. But as more time passed, I realized he wasn’t coming out anytime soon. Feeling defeated, I sent him a text: “Heading home. Call me when you can.”

I called another taxi and returned to our apartment. My phone buzzed with messages from my friends asking what happened. I quickly apologized and told them to enjoy the rest of the night without me.

The Night Before

It was well past midnight when I heard the key in the door. Ryan walked in, looking completely worn out. “Hey,” he said softly. “You’re still up.”

I sat up, trying to hide my frustration. “How’s your mom?” I asked.

He sighed and sank into the armchair across from me. “She’s okay. They’re keeping her overnight for observation. I stayed with Shirley until she finally fell asleep. She was so upset, Emily. She kept begging me not to leave her alone.”

I couldn’t hold back anymore. “Ryan, do you really think that’s all there is to this? Don’t you see what’s happening?” I asked.

He looked at me, his eyes full of exhaustion. “Emily, please, not tonight. Can we just go to bed? I’m really tired.”

I wanted to argue to make him understand, but seeing how worn out he looked, I knew it was pointless. So I nodded, pushing down my frustration.

The Wedding Day

The big day finally arrived. Just before the ceremony, Ryan pulled me aside, taking a deep breath. “Look, I know things have been tough with Mom lately, but I’ve made some arrangements to keep her happy today. I just need you to go along with it. Please,” he said.

My heart sank. “What kind of arrangements?”

Ryan quickly explained that Shirley had a special menu prepared, claiming she had allergies that didn’t really exist. She would be seated next to him at the head table, not with the other parents. The DJ had a list of her favorite songs to play.

And then Ryan hesitated before adding, “She also wants to make a speech.”

I closed my eyes, counting to ten in my head before finally saying, “Okay. For you. For us.”

Ryan kissed me with gratitude, and I returned to my bridesmaids, forcing a smile.

The Speech

The ceremony itself was beautiful. As I walked down the aisle and saw Ryan’s face light up, a wave of love washed over me, pushing aside all my doubts. For that moment, it was just the two of us.

The reception was an experience. Just like Ryan said, Shirley was front and center at our table, telling everyone stories about Ryan’s childhood. She hardly noticed I was even there, except to occasionally pat my hand in a patronizing way.

When it was time for the speeches, I watched in disbelief as Shirley wobbled up to the microphone holding a glass of wine. “My dear friends and family,” she began, her voice shaky. “We’re here to celebrate my only son’s wedding day.”

She went on and on about Ryan’s childhood, his achievements, and how much she had sacrificed for him. I was mentioned exactly once, as a quick afterthought.

Finally, as she wrapped up, Shirley raised her glass. “To my son and his wife. May they be as happy as Ryan and I have always been.”

I drained my champagne in one gulp. The rest of the night passed in a blur. We danced, we laughed, we cut the cake, but Shirley was always there, hovering, ready to insert herself into every moment.