I'm so angry. My ex has recently (November) started rebuilding a relationship with our 3 children (15, 13 & 11). His request, it's taking a lot of work on my part but 2 of the kids really want this (the 3rd knows its his descision & can change his mind at any time). He says he misses them terribly & needs them back in his life.
He's pleading poverty but I am now in receipt of token child maintenance every Friday. Every little helps though & his contribution covers school meals so it's one bill I don't have to worry about.
The kids were absolutely over the moon at Christmas because they got a card from him. First time ever in 3 years. I'd explained that dad was skint so it was doubtful there'd be anything else. They were completely fine about it as I've never gone overboard at Christmas so expectations aren't high.
I found out on Saturday that on Christmas eve he'd turned up on the doorstep of his ex girlfriend (1 year relationship, very much over) with over £500 of gifts for her & her 12 year old daughter.
I haven't told my 3 but feel terrible for them. I really want to mention it to him but don't know if I'm being unreasonable.
- He's obviously not as skint as he's making out.
- He obviously doesn't see or care how hurt our kids would be if they found out about this. Which they could as there are mutual contacts.
- How can he feel so obligated towards a short term step child yet not towards his own?
- I feel like I'm setting a precedent for how the future will be. I refuse to have him think he can coast along with minimal effort. I'm a great believer in the fact that we teach people how to treat us & I don't want him to think it's OK putting his own kids low down on his list of priorities.
Should I pull him up over this?