Every time my mother-in-law Monica visited, she took over our bedroom, pushing my things aside and lighting her heavy scented candles. This time, I decided enough was enough. I prepared a little surprise to make sure she’d stay in the guest room for good.

Monica arrived early, as usual, with her husband Frank trailing behind, lugging their bags. She swept past Jake and me, heading straight for our bedroom, dismissing the guest room with a condescending smile. Jake tried to redirect her, but we both knew he wouldn’t stand up to her.

Over the years, I’d tried hints and direct requests to keep our room private, but Monica always ignored them. So, last night, I called her and made it clear: the guest room was set up, clean, and cozy—and our bedroom was off-limits.

When I got home, Monica had already invaded, suitcase open on our bed, candles lit, and my toiletries shoved aside. I stayed calm, pretending to surrender. But that night, Jake and I retreated to the guest room, while Monica settled into our bedroom filled with carefully placed surprises.

The next morning, Monica stormed into the kitchen, looking mortified. Without a word, she asked to move to the guest room. She and Frank quietly relocated their things, avoiding eye contact.

Later, I showed Jake the hidden lingerie, massage oils, and cheeky adult items I’d strategically placed. He laughed, calling me “evil and brilliant.” Monica never returned to our bedroom, and next Christmas, they booked a hotel. Boundaries had finally been set.