When Mike’s parents first offered us a house, it seemed like a dream come true. With three kids and a tight budget, every bit of help was a blessing.

My husband, Mike, and I had outgrown our little two-bedroomed apartment—the kids were crammed together in one bedroom,

and our cramped space made every day a struggle. We believed that this new house, far from ideal in many ways, was the fresh start our family desperately needed.

“We’ll do it for the kids,” I told Mike as we sat together on our old, worn couch. “No matter what, we’ll make it work.”

He squeezed my hand with a determined smile. “Think of it as a new beginning, Maria.

More space, fresh air, and room for the kids to run. It’s a chance for us to build a home—something our family can grow into.”

That was how it began—a promise of hope and a new chapter for our family.

But even as we poured our hearts, sweat, and savings into renovating that house, we had no inkling of the betrayal that would soon shatter our newfound sanctuary.