When I was 7 months pregnant, I found out that my husband had an affair. I got so upset that ended up in hospital, and my husband packed his things and left for his mistress. So I am on IV, crying. And then my mother-in-law comes into the ward. She sits on the edge of the bed and says, “Lena, I never liked you, so our relationship is not good.

But I think what my son did is disgusting. I’m sorry I didn’t raise him well. We may not be friends, but you’re carrying my grandchild under your heart, and I’m here for you.” There were no particular sentiments: she brought me a nightie, slippers, a cup, home-cooked food, then met me when I was discharged. It was my mother-in-law who picked up my daughter and me from the maternity hospital (my parents are no longer alive). I live with my baby at her place – I can’t afford to rent a flat like I used to. My mother-in-law helps me a lot with my daughter, and I am truly grateful to her for everything.