My ex hadnt given a penny towards our kids for months, but I caught him splashing out on expensive trainers for his stepchildren. I decided it was time for a little payback.
Picture this: I stroll into the shopping centre with my two children, just as I spot him. My ex. The same man who always claims hes got money troubles whenever I ask for new school shoes or supplies for our kids.
And yet, here he is, at the poshest trainer shop in town, letting his stepkids try on flashy branded trainers like hes Lord of the Manor.
I felt my blood begin to boil, but instead of causing a scene, I took a deep breath. Hes not getting away with this, I thought.
I walked over slowly, holding my kids hands, while he was glued to his phone as his stepchildren tried on some outrageously expensive Nike trainers. The shop assistant was busy tidying up boxes.
Excuse me, Miss, I said, flashing my friendliest smile, do you have these styles in sizes 13 and 2?
She looked slightly puzzled.
Certainly. Theyre for?
For my children, I replied. Then, raising my voice just a touch, I added, My husband will pay for the lot, wont you, darling?
My ex looked up from his phone, as if struck by lightning. His eyes nearly popped out.
What? he began, but I had already seated my kids to try on the trainers.
Yes, yes, hell cover everything, I calmly told the assistant. You know, were a blended family, so these are his stepchildren and these are ours. Hes always very insistent on treating them equally, isnt that right, love?
My ex turned beetroot red. He opened his mouth to protest, but the assistant was already bringing out boxes. I winked at him.
They fit perfectly, miss. Well take them.
And just then, as she was jotting things down, I spotted a stunning pair of coral trainers on the shelf. Just my style.
Oh, miss, could I have those in a UK size 5? The coral ones.
For the lady? she asked.
Yes, for me, I answered, as I slipped them on. Lovely fit. And what about those elegant black ones over there? I need something smart for work.
More? my ex croaked, barely managing to get it out.
Dont be tight-fisted, darling, I said sweetly. You know I need comfortable shoes for work. And these sports ones are perfect for taking the kids to the park. Didnt I always tell you I needed new trainers?
The poor shop assistant, oblivious to the drama unfolding, just smiled and tallied things up.
So, thats eight pairs altogether, she said, tapping away on her calculator.
I stood up, gave my kids a quick kiss and moved closer to my ex.
Alright, love, Ive got more shopping to do. The kids will stay with you, alright? Just bring them home later.
Before he could react, I grabbed the bags with my childrens trainersand mineand walked calmly out, feeling like the Queen herself.
The last thing I heard was the assistants voice:
Thatll be £500. Cash or card, sir?
I couldnt help but burst out laughing once I reached the car park. The look on his face was priceless. I glanced at my new trainers in the bag and thought, Thats what I call poetic justice.
That evening, when he brought the kids back (of course, a solid half hour late), he had an expression somewhere between outrage and resignation. The stepchildren were nowhere in sight.
What you did was he started.
What? I cut him off with my most innocent look. Making sure YOUR children got new trainers too? Dont mention it, dear. Its the least you could do.
He paused, then shook his head.
Eight pairs EIGHT! Did you really need TWO?
You never know when youll need comfy trainers, darling. Besideshow many months child support do you owe me? Consider it an advance payment.
Youre mad.
No, Im exhausted, I replied. Theres a difference. Now Im well-shod, too.
He turned to leave, but before he got in his car, I heard him mutter,
Eight pairs Itll cost more than just paying the support
Exactly, genius, I thought as I closed the door.
The kids rushed over and hugged me, thrilled with their new trainers. I wore the coral ones for my evening stroll and felt wonderful.
Was it wrong of me? Maybe.
Do I regret it? Not for a second. And what would you have done in my shoes?
Sometimes, you have to remind people that fairness isnt optional. If we dont stand up for whats right, no one will do it for us.
