When my daughter-in-law asked me to care for my 3-year-old grandson for five days, she explained that her mother had suddenly fallen ill and they needed to travel immediately. I didn’t hesitate. I loved my grandson dearly, and I was glad to help during what I believed was a difficult time.
Two days later, while scrolling online, a video stopped me cold. It was posted by my daughter-in-law’s mother — the very same woman I was told was too unwell to host anyone. The video showed my son and daughter-in-law happily celebrating their anniversary with a large group of friends and relatives. Laughter, music, food — all while I was home caring for their child under false pretenses.