My husband was never listed at my address; after our exchange, he set off for work and hasnt come back.
I first met my husband in my mid-thirties. My earlier relationships with men had all ended in letdowns. From twenty-six to thirty, I lived alone, a single woman tirelessly putting in extra hours, determined to save enough to purchase my own house. Eventually, I managed it and bought a home in Manchester. The sense of achievement was overwhelming, as Id always relied solely on myself. Two years later, I met my husband.
It wasnt a passionate affair or dramatic love that brought us together. At this point in life, excitement takes a back seat. I simply wanted a peaceful, reliable life, ideally with a man who wouldnt make things complicated.
Frankly, James was suitable. He was laid-back, generally cheerful. It wasnt ideal that he didnt own property, but I wasnt focused on possessionsI welcomed him into my home, and he seemed content.
Not many men meet a woman who already owns her own house. No rent to pay, life stays straightforward as long as the relationship lasts. Thats how it went for seven years. We didnt have children. My job kept me busy, and James was just as occupied.
He spent his days at work and only returned to sleep. Children? I considered it, but decided to wait. These days, if youve got the means, you can have a child at fifty.
Last week, over breakfast, he asked directly: when will you add me to your address? He explained he needed to remove himself from his mothers place so shed pay less for council tax. Hed lived with me for seven years. I told him I wouldnt do it. We hadnt been together long enough for that. Whats the point?
My house is mineif I choose to register someone, I will; if not, I wont. Its nobody elses concern. He could have bought his own place. His salary was decent, most of it he either saved or spent elsewhereI never asked. I didnt mind. We pooled money for essentials, and the rest we used as we liked.
After that talk, he left for work and didnt return that night. The next morning, he sent a message saying he was filing for divorce. He said it was because I dont trust him. Thats all I know. Im still shocked hes done this. Its not about trust. Life is uncertain, and theres no guarantee wed stay together forever. Im not giving up my house for anyone. I worked incredibly hard for it; its mine. And since my husband was only with me for that, Ill let him go.
Sometimes, holding onto what youve earned means letting go of what isnt truly yours.
