Im 21 years old. Five years ago, my mum brought her second husband into our home. I took an instant dislike to him. He worked as a caretaker and turned up at our door with just two suitcases, but right away he started bossing me about and acting as if he was in charge. I couldnt stand him. I really have no idea what my mum saw in him. His pay is dreadful and hes still paying maintenance to his ex-wife. Weve never gotten along. At first, I just stayed quiet, but after a while, the rows started. When I finished sixth form, I got into medical school with a scholarship.
Ever since I was little, Ive dreamed of becoming a doctor. I really try to keep up with my studies, even though medicine is far from easy. Luckily, I received a grant to help out. Six months ago, this man started moaning at me, telling me I was sponging off them: Youre a grown up, yet your mum still has to look after you. Were the ones feeding and clothing you; by your age, I was already working. He kept going on about how I should be bringing money into the house, insisting I ought to get a job and help out, as money was tight. The worst part is, my mum actually sides with himshe tells me hes right and insists its for my own good, trying to set me straight.
My mum said, You could get a part-time job. Its hard for us to keep supporting youwere not made of steel, you know. Two nights ago, this man said over dinner that adults, especially grown-up children, should live apart from their parents. I was stunned and looked over at my mumshe just stayed quiet, which meant she agreed with him.
I went up to my room. The next morning, my mum brought up the conversation from the previous night: Its really hard for me; I feel torn. Were always arguing, you cause a scene and wont hold your tongue. I just want to live my life quietly. Hes right, you are an adult and its time to move out. Youve got a month to find somewhere to live and then you need to go. Im absolutely shocked. I never thought Mum would decide to get rid of me. Ill never forgive her for this.
