The Mother In Law at the Airport

Ted was driving his mother-in-law, Sylvia, to the airport after a grueling three-week visit. He was trying his best to be polite, but the silence in the car was heavy with the relief he felt about her finally leaving. As they pulled up to the departures curb, Sylvia turned to him with a rare, watery-eyed look of affection.

"Ted," she whispered, "I know we’ve had our differences, but I want you to know how much I appreciate you. If I ever said anything to hurt your feelings, I want you to know that I truly didn't mean it."

Ted was stunned. He felt a wave of guilt wash over him for being so happy she was leaving. He reached over and patted her hand. "That’s okay, Sylvia. I really appreciate you saying that. It means a lot."

Sylvia nodded, stepped out of the car, and grabbed her suitcase. Just before she closed the door, she stuck her head back in and said, "And Ted? If I ever said anything nice about your cooking, I didn't mean that either."