So mate, something happened recently that really turned my world upside down. You know how I’ve always been single, right? Even my younger brother’s been married with kids for ages. It’s not like I didn’t want to settle downI just couldn’t find the right woman. My family was always teasing me about when I’d finally get married and throw a proper party. Honestly, I was ready. So when I hit 34, I decided enough was enoughI was done with bachelor life.
Anyway, one night I’m at a bar and I see a bloke from work having a laugh with this lady. We start chatting over a pint.
Hey mate, didnt expect to see you here. Whats the occasion?
Evening, Chris. My friends in town. Thought wed go out for a bit.
Go on then, introduce us!
Sure. This is Sophie.
Welcome to our little town, Sophie. Im Chris.
Lovely to meet some new faces. Lets be mates.
Fancy being my mate, then?
Im up for it.
She was absolutely charming, kind of reserved but you could tell she was used to being around people. There was something about SophieI was hooked. As we talked, I found out she had a daughter who was still in school. Honestly, I was a bit unsure at first, but then I thought, why let that stop me? Plenty of people have kids these days.
So, Sophie moved in with me and things were great. Her daughter was often busy with school, lessons, and music practice. During holidays, shed go stay with her gran.
Thing is, Sophie never felt the need to get a jobshe reckoned I earned enough to look after all of us. And for a while, I was happy to do it. But bit by bit, it started feeling like she was asking for more and more, beyond the usual bits for food and bills. She wanted to send her daughter to tutoring, extra clubs, the lot.
Chris, I need some cash for guitar lessons. Can you give me more this time?
Alright, I want whats best for your girl.
But with costs going up all the time, it was getting a bit much. Eventually I snapped and told Sophie exactly what I was thinking.
Chris, the teacher called yesterday. Theres a class trip. I want my daughter to go but its a lot of money. It wouldnt be right for her to miss out while all her friends are going. What do you think?
Sophie, Im fed up with always shelling out for all these activities. Why isnt her real dad chipping in for any of this?
You knew I had a daughter. If youre going to be tight and petty, you wouldnt be with me now. I cant believe you!
At that, Sophie burst into tears and locked herself in the bedroom. I felt awful and ended up apologising, handing her the cash she wanted, but things felt off afterwards. I just couldnt understand why her daughters dad wasnt helping out at all. So I tried again to talk it through.
Sophie, please dont be angry. Im not trying to pick a fightI just want to know why your ex isnt helping out.
I wont take a penny from him. I dont want it.
Honestly, I think thats unfair. Youve got me paying for everything, and her actual dad doesnt give a toss. That cant be right.
So now Im just a stranger to you? I thought my daughter was part of your family. I thought you were a good man.
Dont accuse me of not caring. I could just as easily accuse you.
Go on then. Anyway, Ill never ask him for money. If you dont want to help, fine! Ill earn it myself. Were not begging anyone. Fed up with the responsibility? Maybe we should just call it quits.
Why are you so angry? Cant we just talk and sort this out?
I dont want any more talking. Im going to bed. You can sleep on the sofa. Im done for tonight.
So, I ended up tossing and turning all night on the settee, thinking about everything that happened. Turns out Sophies far too proud, and I’m now in a sort of stand-off with her daughter. As her daughter grows up, I know the issues and expenses will only get bigger. And her dad? She showed me a photo on her laptophes got a fancy car and snazzy clothes, clearly nowhere near skint. If Sophie ever asked, he could easily help out. Its just her pride stopping her. I reckon Ill have to talk to him myself and try to sort it.
