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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

AIBU to think my fiancé overreacted part 2

94 replies

Sunglasses1979 · 02/06/2026 19:12

A kind poster suggested making a second thread so here it is x

I am trying to work out whether I am being unfair or whether my fiancé genuinely overreacts to situations.
I was spending a long weekend with him and we had plans for Monday. Friday to Sunday eve were lovely and we did sightseeing etc. then went to his and were planning to stay there for a few nights.

However, I realised I had accidentally double-booked the Monday because my adult DD had arranged for me to meet her new boyfriend and his father over lunch. It was important to her and had been organised for a while. DD has is ND and has severe MH issues; this is the first "normal" relationship she has had and it's a huge deal for her.

I told my fiancé on Sunday afternoon that I would go to the lunch for a few hours and then come back afterwards so we could still spend the Monday evening together and the following days.

He was furious. He said I was choosing other people over him and repeatedly referred to my daughter's boyfriend and his father as "strange men". He seemed particularly upset that I would be spending time with another man, even though it was DD's BF's dad not just a random stranger.

After I had told him I had double booked and would need to go for a few hours we were arguing about it non-stop for hours. I was crying at one point and I kept saying I was sorry, it was human error, not deliberate. After all this arguing I was tired and wanted to stay in, but at around 11pm he insisted we go out. While we were out he deliberately started talking to a much younger woman, introduced himself to her, claimed he got her Instagram and then repeatedly talked about how he was meeting her for dinner the next day. His argument was that if I was going for lunch with strange men the next day, then why couldn't he meet up with a new person too? Even though it was not the same at all, obviously. The young woman must have been about 20 and we are both in our 40's so it just felt really weird and "off".

The argument continued after we got back to his for most of the night and I got very little sleep. The next morning I had to get an extremely expensive Uber to make sure I did not let my daughter down and miss the lunch. He had said not to come back to his after lunch but then called me when I was in the Uber and asked me to come back to his after all.

The lunch itself was lovely. Afterwards, I travelled back to his. However, when I arrived we had another argument. During it, he picked up my bags and threw them across the room in anger, they went everywhere as he threw them so hard.

He later continued to use the lunch as an example of me not caring about him enough and prioritising other people over our relationship, and how I like "strange men".

From my point of view, I attended an important family event for a few hours and still made the effort to return afterwards. From his point of view, I had disrespected him and chosen other people over him.

When I told him how much the Uber cost he took offence because I have never gotten an Uber to his even if I am running late; he said he didn't realise I have money in this way.

When I went back to his after the lunch I had to get a standing room only train in the middle of the heatwave; I don't like public transport at the best of times and he kept asking when I arrived what did I want to do; meet his friends in the pub or go straight to his. I said I don't care and was almost in tears as I was finding the journey so stressful. I didn't realise but he had me on loud speaker so all his friends heard me when I said "I don't care" and now he's saying his friends all think I am horrible and rude to him. When it was taken out of context and they didn't know we had been arguing all night and that he'd got a much younger woman's contact details the night before.

Am I missing something or was he overreacting?

OP posts:
bittertwisted · 03/06/2026 15:10

I read your first thread, ignore the scattering of ‘oh just leave him/ you love drama/ are you stupid’ posts. if this abuse style didn’t work men wouldn’t do it

they convince you it is you, you are unlovable, you are a vile person. You make them behave badly so if only you didn’t trigger them it wouldn’t happen.
so you try to avoid the triggers, but the catch is they keep changing, or the bar at which an off the cuff comment is a trigger gets lower and lower. You aren’t told about these new rules so you spend your whole time appeasing, and trying to comply, keeping the peace

then if you break these rules the punishment is absolutely disgusting verbal and written abuse, no limits to the cruelty. Then probably followed by the silent treatment until you are so exhausted living with the fear you convince yourself it is your fault and start begging

the immediate explosions of temper about the most trivial of things

you have normalised, convinced yourself if you behave you get the nice bits. He will tell you he is cruel for your own good. You will do anything to keep the peace, so accept awful behaviour because you don’t have that boundary thing that tells you this is not acceptable

been there, got many T-shirts. Funnily enough have brought up young men who have really strong boundaries that always amazes me. If any of them treated a woman the way you have been treated I would hit the roof, and be very ashamed of them

that ls my benchmark for this, you are very brave and it’s going to be tough

after trying to scare you in to submission you WILL get the begging and promises

TheGreatDownandOut · 03/06/2026 16:16

Checking in OP as I was on your first thread. You’re doing really well, take the time to think about how you can end this on your own terms in a way that makes you feel safe. Think about anyone you know whom he could contact either via SM or other means, close friends or family, and try and get a wall of silence in place. Grey rock is the best way to deal with an abusive narcissist

Sunglasses1979 · 03/06/2026 20:27

Thank you very much for checking in 💓

I have bought time by saying I'm not feeling very well. Fortunately he is quite germ-phobic so this means he will not want to see me for a few days.
I am not sure if it is believable that I'm going to be ill for more than a few days though, and then I will have to end it, which I am dreading.

He is friends on Instagram and FB with my BFF and DD but nobody else. In the past when I tried to escape he ended up contacting them both but thank goodness they saw through him and just ignored him.
I am not friends with any of his friends online and have only met them a handful of times in real life. He constantly complains about his friends even though they seem like a nice bunch of people. I think they maybe feel a bit sorry for him if anything. But they definitely don't know how abusive he is because one of the things that has got him really angry is me telling him they'd be shocked if they heard the way he spoke to me when it is just the two of us.

OP posts:
Tabarnak · 03/06/2026 20:43

I’m glad you are OK @Sunglasses1979 .

Buying time is good if it helps you make preparations. Be careful it doesn’t turn into a time where your self protection and resolve dwindle and the fear of telling him grows and puts you off.

Have your plan, put things in place, and once it’s done the fear is off your list, and you will probably feel great freedom.

It’s hard breaking up. You grieve for what you thought you had. You miss the happy future you thought you had.
But in truth it sounds as if a relationship with this man is a horrible experience for too much of the time.

Have you spoken to any friends or family yet?

RetiredFromExplaining · 03/06/2026 21:41

Sunglasses1979 · 03/06/2026 20:27

Thank you very much for checking in 💓

I have bought time by saying I'm not feeling very well. Fortunately he is quite germ-phobic so this means he will not want to see me for a few days.
I am not sure if it is believable that I'm going to be ill for more than a few days though, and then I will have to end it, which I am dreading.

He is friends on Instagram and FB with my BFF and DD but nobody else. In the past when I tried to escape he ended up contacting them both but thank goodness they saw through him and just ignored him.
I am not friends with any of his friends online and have only met them a handful of times in real life. He constantly complains about his friends even though they seem like a nice bunch of people. I think they maybe feel a bit sorry for him if anything. But they definitely don't know how abusive he is because one of the things that has got him really angry is me telling him they'd be shocked if they heard the way he spoke to me when it is just the two of us.

This in your comment hit me like a train:
In the past when I tried to escape

Did you write that subconsciously? Because it says everything you need to know about the relationship. You want and have tried to escape from him.

Make sure you are safe, maybe ask for a Claire’s Law report on him from the police. Take the time you need to leave safely.

YourWinter · 03/06/2026 22:04

I’d suggest that if he has a key, change your locks before he has an opportunity to visit, and if he has ever known any PINs or passwords, change them before you tell him it is finished.

MrsOvertonsWindow · 03/06/2026 22:22

Good to see that you've bought yourself some time. Hopefully you've been able to speak to family and friends. Support for those who care for you is critical for when it feels hard and when you understandably have a wobble.

Have you been able to speak to your DD yet? It may help for her to know before you tell him if he's likely to contact her / see her as a possibility to out pressure on you? She can easily block him on instagram if that's easier.

Sending you all good wishes.

Safarisagoody · 04/06/2026 07:48

Sunglasses1979 · 03/06/2026 20:27

Thank you very much for checking in 💓

I have bought time by saying I'm not feeling very well. Fortunately he is quite germ-phobic so this means he will not want to see me for a few days.
I am not sure if it is believable that I'm going to be ill for more than a few days though, and then I will have to end it, which I am dreading.

He is friends on Instagram and FB with my BFF and DD but nobody else. In the past when I tried to escape he ended up contacting them both but thank goodness they saw through him and just ignored him.
I am not friends with any of his friends online and have only met them a handful of times in real life. He constantly complains about his friends even though they seem like a nice bunch of people. I think they maybe feel a bit sorry for him if anything. But they definitely don't know how abusive he is because one of the things that has got him really angry is me telling him they'd be shocked if they heard the way he spoke to me when it is just the two of us.

God the more you post the more of a prince he seems, he’s germ phobic so won’t want to see you when you’re unwell? You know a decent partner wants to support you when you’re unwell, not make it about them.

I understand this has been death by a thousand cuts, but your friends and family are right, what an utter shit show he is. Seriously the sooner you get this controlling loser gone the better.

liamharha · 04/06/2026 09:07

Op the fact your frightened to end things means you have been coercivly controlled tell the police your frightened of his reaction ana he has been very unpredictable in the past and you feel like you are walking on eggshells so not to engage him .

AcrossthePond55 · 04/06/2026 13:56

@Sunglasses1979

I am not sure if it is believable that I'm going to be ill for more than a few days

I expect you could drag a 'severe' case of norovirus out to 5-7 days what with 'fatigue' and a 'still rumbly-tummy'. If he's a germaphobe he won't want to be around you when you're still 'symptomatic'.

He is friends on Instagram and FB with my BFF and DD

Just keep them apprised of your 'timetable' and they can delete him/unfriend him as soon as you've dumped him. Or they'll be prepared for any messages he may send that warrant 'further action'.

You're doing great and you'll get through this.

PartyQuestion30th · 04/06/2026 13:58

Have you done a Claire's law request...?

wantmorenow · 04/06/2026 14:01

PartyQuestion30th · 04/06/2026 13:58

Have you done a Claire's law request...?

Going to second this idea as a priority as if he has previous form then knowledge is power and you may get more support from the police if, God forbid, you need it. Good luck.

Tabarnak · 04/06/2026 16:14

It takes 4-5 weeks to get a Claire’s Law disclosure.

The OP can hardly keep up the illness front for that long, or worse still just go along with the relationship.

OP, ring doorbell or alternative, friend or relative, and contact the police and tell them what is happening and ask advice if you feel you need to.

Good luck!

MaddestGranny · 04/06/2026 18:25

Don't waver. Keep strong. You are saving your own life.

Lean on all the good advice and good wishes on here from so many posters in both threads.
I agree with all those who've said go to the police. Let them know all that has happened. Tell them you are in fear of him. Log it. Leave a trail.

Could be best to be staying away from home when you message him that it's totally, completely, finally over. But, if you're in your own home, make sure you have a friend or family member staying with you.
You've got so many supporters OP.

Choose life and freedom.

Frillysweetpea · 04/06/2026 18:26

I'd imagine Women's Aid can advise you on this but if you are really scared of ending it with him can you arrange a date and time to do it with a friend waiting in the wings? Maybe friend could be in their car and if you haven't phoned by a certain time they need to come and rescue you/go to the police if they can not gain admittance. You also need a code/word phrase in case your BF forces you to phone them and say everything is ok when it isn't. Wishing you much courage and a good outcome.

RetiredFromExplaining · 04/06/2026 18:26

Tabarnak · 04/06/2026 16:14

It takes 4-5 weeks to get a Claire’s Law disclosure.

The OP can hardly keep up the illness front for that long, or worse still just go along with the relationship.

OP, ring doorbell or alternative, friend or relative, and contact the police and tell them what is happening and ask advice if you feel you need to.

Good luck!

There’s a woman on here who just had one turned round within 24 hours. And a good job too as he nearly killed his previous partner.

GreatFish · 04/06/2026 19:11

Have you checked to see if he has previous with ex partners. His reactions seem extreme to say the least.

ThistleTits · 04/06/2026 22:51

@Sunglasses1979 I think you should go to the police. Coercive control is a real crime. This won't be the first time he's been abusive to partners. When you report it, they will record it as a DV crime. This will not only help you but potentially future women he meets.
I read your first post, I am so glad you are ending it, he won't change.
Good luck in the future.

CatMummyOf3 · 05/06/2026 06:06

I read your first post, every update you posted left me more concerned for you.

I'm relieved you have decided to end things with him and that you are putting safety measures in place (doorbell, friends/family).

Stay strong, you can do this. If you start to doubt your decision, re-read your first post - you are doing the right thing. As a pp said, your future self will thank you 💐

dh280125 · 05/06/2026 10:54

It's over, he's awful, you owe him nothing. Break up by text. Go away for a few days so he can't see you. Block him everywhere. Tell your BF and DD to block him too. Get the Ring. Don't feel bad. There are better men for you out there.

Tabarnak · 05/06/2026 15:43

I hope you are OK @Sunglasses1979

What are your plans for the weekend?

Going away, tomorrow or next weekend is a good idea if that is possible/ appeals.

Do you work from home?

Anyway, I hope you are getting through, hour by hour, day by day.

HAPPILYMARRIEDSINCE2012 · 05/06/2026 16:20

RetiredFromExplaining · 03/06/2026 21:41

This in your comment hit me like a train:
In the past when I tried to escape

Did you write that subconsciously? Because it says everything you need to know about the relationship. You want and have tried to escape from him.

Make sure you are safe, maybe ask for a Claire’s Law report on him from the police. Take the time you need to leave safely.

This

CathyFitzs · 05/06/2026 20:43

The very best of love and luck to you. This may sound alarming but please also consider the safety of your daughter. Please make her aware of what is happening, I presume she lives separately from you? She might be wise to get a doorbell camera too. Please ask the police for advice concerning her safety. I hope I am completely wrong here in being concerned for her. Take care x

meganorks · 05/06/2026 20:50

Could you call the police and ask for a Clare's law check? I don't really know how it works but maybe say you are planning to end things with current partner as on reflection you think he has been emotionally abusive. But now you are scared of his reaction, so you are wondering if he has any history of DV.

TheEponymousGrub · 05/06/2026 20:58

Posters! Please stop suggesting a Clare Law disclosure. Whatever he has done in the past, the OP already knows he is an imminent danger NOW and that she needs to proceed safely now to get rid of him. There's no reason to suggest things she might do instead of that.

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