When my brother-in-law, Jack, and his new wife, Sally, asked to spend their honeymoon at our house, my husband Simon and I were happy to oblige. Our place is quiet and picturesque—perfect for newlyweds on a tight budget.

The goodwill evaporated fast. Jack and Sally announced they would be sleeping in our master bedroom because it was “more comfortable” and “more romantic.” We gently said no and pointed them to the fully furnished guest room. They ignored us and moved their bags into our room anyway.

The breaking point came during our daughter Alicia’s birthday party. Jack and Sally devoured the food we’d prepared for the kids, leaving the table a mess and the children hungry. A heartbroken Alicia phoned her grandparents in tears, telling them her uncle was “being mean to Mommy.”

Simon’s parents arrived unannounced, surveyed the chaos, and immediately backed us up. They told Jack and Sally to pack up and leave that very day. Instead of apologizing, the newlyweds complained we were “ungrateful.”

It stung, but the ordeal taught me something crucial: family ties don’t grant anyone permission to trample boundaries. Safeguarding your home—and your peace—sometimes means drawing a firm line, even with people you love.