DEAR CHRISTINE, I left my mother’s home three years ago against her wishes to live with my boyfriend. At first everything was going okay. We worked together to get the furniture and shared with the upkeep of the house.
Recently we have been arguing a lot. He just wants me to go to work and back home while he goes out as he likes. I did not mind going to parties so much but when he stopped me going to the beach, I really felt angry.
All he seems to want me to do is work at my workplace and then come home and work in the house. He never helps me to do a thing and he is not particularly tidy. When he takes off his clothes he just drops them about. I am tired of his shouting at me and last week he struck me.
I want to leave him but I’m not sure he’ll let me take the furniture. I’ve spoken to my mother and she says I can come back home. What do you think?
H.L
Dear H.L:
You have every right to seek the comfort of your mom’s residence and go back home.
In fact, you have every right to break up a relationship if you are not happy in it. I don’t see how you can be with someone who seems mean, selfish, lazy and violent.
It would surprise me if he allowed you to take the furniture unless it was purchased in your name and you have the relevant receipts to prove this. If there is no clear-cut proof then just give it up.
It’s a small price to pay for the freedom you’ll enjoy when you return to your mother and a new life.
– CHRISTINE