Our seaside home often welcomes guests, but my brother-in-law’s honeymoon stay tested our family, revealing our daughter’s protective love. Living near beaches and quaint eateries, my husband, Nate, and I enjoy hosting. When Nate’s brother, Dan, called, buzzing about marrying Sophie, we agreed. “Can we honeymoon at your place? Wedding costs are high,” he said. Nate smiled, and I said, “A week’s fine!” We expected joy, not trouble. Before their visit, Dan texted, asking for our bedroom over the guest room’s air mattress. “It’s not ideal,” he wrote.
Our bedroom is our private retreat, sacred to us. “No,” I told Nate. He replied, “Guest room’s great with a comfy bed.” Dan huffed, “It’s our honeymoon!” They arrived early, during our daughter Lily’s birthday party prep. I was arranging treats when Dan and Sophie marched in, heading to our bedroom. I found Dan unpacking, Sophie at my dresser. “Your room’s over there,” I said. Dan said, “This has better flow.” Sophie added, “Just a week.” Shocked, I got Nate, but Lily’s friends arrived, delaying us. Then, Dan and Sophie ate Lily’s party food—cupcakes ruined, veggies munched. “Too sweet,” Dan said. “That’s for Lily,” I pleaded. Lily’s sad eyes crushed me.
We spent $190 at the store to replace the food. Back home, Nate’s parents, Tom and Grace, confronted Dan and Sophie. Lily had called them, crying about Dan’s meanness. Grace snapped, “You don’t take their room or a child’s food!” Dan argued, but Tom sent them to a hotel. They left, no apology, blaming us. Grace hugged me, saying, “You’re amazing.” That night, Nate and I marveled at Lily’s courage. Tom and Grace sent flowers and money, but Dan and Sophie stayed silent. Lily’s love taught us to hold firm. Family means respect, and her strength showed us how to protect our home’s warmth.
