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Mumsnet has not checked the qualifications of anyone posting here. If you need help urgently or expert advice, please see our domestic violence webguide and/or relationships webguide. Many Mumsnetters experiencing domestic abuse have found this thread helpful: Listen up, everybody

So, so hurt... need to vent...

20 replies

CremeEggThief · 24/08/2012 17:55

Out of the blue, my H left me for his OW at the beginning of June. He broke it to me as, "I want a divorce. I can't be happy in this life". Under further questioning, he admitted he had cheated on me, and was choosing her over me. He refused to tell me who she was or how long it had been going on for. Prior to this, he had been working away in London for just over a year and commuting back to me and DS (9) at weekends, sometimes every other weekend. I had NO inkling he was cheating or thinking about leaving, so it came as a complete bombshell. We were together for fifteen years, married for nine of those.

Anyway, I was slowly starting to find my way back to normality, and just about out of the getting-through-it-one-day-at-a-time-stage, when he finally decided to come clean about the OW this weekend. I was asking him about getting his name off the council tax and setting up a redirection for his post, and he told me he would be officially moving in with homewrecker in October, when the tenancy for his shared room is up. When I asked him if he would have room there for all his crap that's still here, (up in the attic now, so I don't have to look at it), he said, "There's barely room for all the stuff I have there now". Basically, he let it slip that he moved in with her straight after leaving me. He then said, "We thought it made sense to try living together while I still have my room". When I asked him for his new address details, as a mobile 'phone number is not really enough for contact details when there are children involved, he said, "I'll have to ask her permission". When I asked him to tell me how long it's been going on, he said two and a half or three months before he told me. I don't believe this, but if it's true, it feels even worse.

He also asked me if I had changed my Facebook status yet, to which I replied I'd just taken out the status completely, as it felt too public. On Monday night, he changed his status from 'married' to 'in a relationship with...', and allowed himself to be tagged in some of the OW's photos (He was moaning to me about how hard it is for him supporting his life in London and us, and those photos were taken at the Savoy Hotel on his birthday earlier this month!). I felt sickened, and I was also very worried for how DS would feel, as his father hasn't told him he is seeing someone else. I texted him to tell him his son had a right to know, rather than seeing this so publicly on Facebook and to think about his feelings. In response, he said he had limited DS's profile view of his profile, so he wouldn't see this information and the pictures. He did so, as I checked, but it's hardly the answer longterm. Needless to say, I have now unfriended him on Facebook.

I have said nothing to him about any of this and how it makes me feel, as I figure he is not worth it and I don't want to give him the satisfaction of knowing just how much he's hurt me. In the first few weeks, I vented and ranted to so many family members and friends, that I don't really want to do this to them again. They've listened to enough! But all over again, I want to scream, rant, rage and bloody KILL him and her, for what they have put me through, and the total lack of guilt and shame over what they have done.

These feelings had died down a lot and faded to almost indifference, but finding out this new information has brought them back with a vengeance. This has been my worst week since the first three weeks after he dropped the bombshell. I just feel so raw and confused and am struggling to make what would normally be fairly simple decisions.

I am not really looking for any advice as such, but an assurance that further revelations often trigger a setback, would be nice. Part of me wonders if he did it to be deliberately cruel, as from my point of view, it would have been better to have all the information at the beginning. I know it had to come out at some stage, and it just further reinforces my opinion that I am so much better off without someone who treated me in such a cruel and cowardly manner, but my God, what an awful way to find out the truth about someone.

Thanks for reading my story.

OP posts:
Spuddybean · 24/08/2012 18:03

I have nothing to say advice wise but just wanted to say i hope you feel better soon. you are better off without him as you say.

I quit facebook as i couldn't bear seeing exH with exBF. It would have just been an upset too far.

AlistairSim · 24/08/2012 18:08

He sounds like a knobcheese.

So sorry you are still being hurt by him, this too will fade into insignificance in time, I promise.

How about telling hime he needs to come and collect all his stuff? Not your problem if he has nowhere to store it.

fayster · 24/08/2012 18:11

No kids involved, but my xP left me for OW, though I didn't find out about her for several weeks after he moved out (and it turns out they moved in together practically straight away as well) and he was still telling me and his family that he would like us to get back together. Yes, it made it 100x worse to find out he'd been seeing someone else, but oddly when I found out who she was (he refused to tell me anything about her to begin with), I felt much better, as I could see that she was no better than me. It helped me realise that this was his problem, and not about me at all.

I'm so sorry you're going through this. You and your son have my best wishes.

squishee · 24/08/2012 18:14

Oh CremeEggThief, I'm so sorry you've been treated like this.

I just wanted to say that I can sympathise in a lot of ways although my situation was different. The dishonesty and opacity were the same from what I can tell... And who needs someone like that?

UnrequitedSkink · 24/08/2012 18:14

I think it sounds like you've let him get off scott free! He SHOULD know how badly he's hurt you, how dare he do the things he's done? What an utterly insensitive twat, I am incensed on your behalf! I'd have commented on all his photos with her ("oh, was that when you told me you had to work all weekend?") and emailed all his friends about how he abandoned you and your kids...you've behaved with grace and dignity so far but it seems to have had the side effect of giving him a far easier ride (tho sounds like he's got one of those already) than he deserves!

AmberLeaf · 24/08/2012 18:15

Yes deffo tell he has to get his stuff out of your home!

What an arseface and I think its perfectly normal for you to feel as you do. You've just had the scab ripped of a slowly healing wound. But dont worry as you will get past this.

Chin up. You're well rid.

AmberLeaf · 24/08/2012 18:19

UnrequitedSkink what you're suggesting or saying you'd have done wouldn't make a shred of difference and would give the impression you were unhinged!

Serene dignity is the way forward IMO.

olgaga · 24/08/2012 18:22

Give him 2 weeks to come and get all his stuff and tell him if he doesn't make the deadline a man and a van will take the whole lot to the tip.

What's happening with arrangements for finance and children? Is that all in hand?

UnrequitedSkink · 24/08/2012 18:25

Amberleaf - I know, I know....I had a moment of fury! Fingers crossed OH never cheats on me, I'll end up in a padded cell.

Although my point still stands - you can be TOO serene and dignified, CremeEgg's ex probably can't believe his luck that he got out without a mark... it's not fair that he shouldn't have any knowledge of the pain he's caused!

clam · 24/08/2012 18:31

Tell him that you are not a free storage facility for his belongings and that, if he doesn't make arrangements to remove them by xx date, you will organise them being collected by a charity of your choice.

JustFabulous · 24/08/2012 18:31

What a fucking lucky escape.

You were married to a manchild who has to ask "permission" if he can give out his phone number. FFS he should be thinking of his son, then his son, then his son. Not his fucking bit on the side.

CremeEggThief · 24/08/2012 18:35

Thanks All. I can't stay on for long, as DS and I are just about to eat.

UnrequitedSkink, I have wondered at times if I am being a tad too dignified, as it does feel as if he's getting away with it all, and I'm the one dealing with all DS's anger and pain at what's happened, and that's without even knowing his father has found someone else! However, I think the passive, indifferent act I put on is probably disconcerting for him, as most of the time, I am prepared to speak my mind and can be rather touchy.

WRT to the Facebook thing, I would have LOVED to post those sorts of sarky comments, but I realised he'd made himself look like a bigger twat by going so public and without any shame, after such a short period of time. Also, I'm no oil painting, but she's not a patch on me, so even though it sickened me seeing them together, at least I can take some comfort in that!

OP posts:
ImperialBlether · 24/08/2012 18:40

I think the shock of finding out something like that can make you ill. It's as though everything you thought was true is a lie. How your husband concealed the fact he was a complete bastard all that time is a miracle.

It sounds as though he's met his match with that woman. I'm sure he'll get everything he deserves with her. Once the first flush has died down and he finds he can't go anywhere or do anything without permission, he'll be away in a flash.

Have you sorted out the finances? This woman sounds as though she'll happily get involved in that.

You're lucky he's gone, OP. I know what a shock it is.

One thing I found useful was that every time the thought of him came into my mind, I made myself say (out loud if alone, but otherwise in my mind) "Fuck off X. Fuck off out of my head." I found before too long that as soon as his name came into my mind I'd have the automatic reflex.

I've been enrolling students this week and actually thought "I hope nobody with that name comes in otherwise I won't be responsible!"

ThePlatypusAlwaysTriumphs · 24/08/2012 18:48

as others have said, you are still better off without him. Pity the OW- she has gained a proven liar and cheat. If he is moaning about the expense of his (chosen) lifestyle, it's possible poor deluded OW paid for his little trip to the Savoy!

As for facebook, one of my friends has recently broken up their marriage and family in a similar way, and has posted stuff on FB about how happy her new partner makes her- boak! As a friend, I cringed for her when I saw it, and felt it was really inappropriate- I'm guessing many of your ExH's fb contacts would be feeling the same. I believe in karma, and I think you're right to play it with dignity. Whose to say his new relationship will be ultimately successful? There may come a time when YOU are happy and settled and he is having a crappy time...problem is, by then you will be so over him you won't even get any satisfaction from it!

AmberLeaf · 24/08/2012 18:48

it's not fair that he shouldn't have any knowledge of the pain he's caused!

Hed probably be far too wrapped up in himself for it to sink in anyway!

Best of luck OP. I think you're doing the right thing with your current stance.

stookiesackhouse · 24/08/2012 18:53

I am really sorry you are going through this Creme :(

I think it's entirely understandable you've had a setback after further revelations. I think though, you'll bounce back a bit quicker than after the initial shock.

Don't feel you can't chat to your friends etc because they have heard enough. I am sure they would want to support you right now than think you're hurting over the new info...

RightFedUp · 24/08/2012 18:54

Sorry that this has happened to your family CremeEggThief.

From what I've read and experienced, your reaction to this new set of revelations is usual.

The advice given to couples trying to work through the aftermath of an affair and stay together is that the cheater is completely truthful 100% straight away. Any new information given 'down the line' can put the faithful partner back to square one and make things raw and traumatic again.

I really think this is true. It's a long road to getting yourself back together when such a shattering thing has happened. Be kind to yourself.

squishee · 24/08/2012 18:54

Something I've realised is that no "plan B" will ever work out for someone who is unable to have healthy relationships. So it hurts now, but don't feel too bad. It will most likely not work out for him. And you (and I) have indeed had a lucky escape.

CremeEggThief · 26/08/2012 14:37

Thanks again All. I am still in turmoil and very, very confused. Going away for a few days with DS tomorrow, but when I come back, I need to try to arrange some counselling and see the C.A.B., a housing advisor or both. I also need to get some free legal advice. At present, we have a private agreement, but him refusing to give me his new address from October is ringing alarm bells, and in the circumstances of the break-up, I don't think things can be amicable, although I will do my best to remain civil.

Thanks again for all your support.

OP posts:
olgaga · 30/08/2012 11:49

Some information you might find useful:

Relationship Breakdown and Divorce ? Advice and Links

General

Read everything you can get your hands on. Get familiar with the language of family law and procedure and try to get an understanding of your rights BEFORE you see a solicitor. Get word of mouth recommendations for family lawyers in your area if possible. If you have children at school, ask mums you are friendly with if they know of anyone who can make a recommendation in your area. These days there are few people who don?t know of anyone who has been through a divorce or separation ? there?s a lot of knowledge and support out there!

If there are children involved, their interests will always come first. It is the children?s right to maintain a meaningful relationship with the non-resident parent (NRP) ? not the other way around. Children are not possessions to be ?fairly? divided between separating parents. Parents have no rights, only responsibilities. A divorce will not be granted where children are involved unless there are agreed arrangements for finance, and care of the children (?Statement of Arrangements for Children?). It is obviously quicker and cheaper if this can be agreed but if there is no agreement, the Court will make an Order (?Residence and Contact? regarding children, ?Financial Order? or ?Ancillary Relief? in the case of Finance)

Many family lawyers will offer the first half hour consultation free. Make use of this. Don?t just stick with the first lawyer you find ? shop around and find someone you feel comfortable with. You may be in for a long haul, so it helps if you can find a solicitor you?re happy with.

If you can?t find any local recommendations, always see a solicitor who specialises in Family Law. You can search by area here:

www.resolution.org.uk/

You can also find family law solicitors here:

www.lawsociety.org.uk/areasoflaw/view=areasoflawdetails.law?AREAOFLAW=Family%20law&AREAOFLAWID=36

Check your eligibility for Legal Aid here:

legalaidcalculator.justice.gov.uk/calculators/eligiCalc?execution=e1s1

Some family law solicitors publish online feedback from clients ? Google solicitors to see if any recommendations or feedback exists.

Mediation

You will be encouraged to attend mediation. If there has been violence or emotional abuse, discuss this with your solicitor first. Always get legal advice, or at the very least make sure you are aware of your legal rights, before you begin mediation.

Married or Living Together?

This is a key question. If you are married, generally speaking you have greater protection when a relationship breaks down.

Legal Issues around marriage/cohabitation and relationship breakdown are explained here:

www.adviceguide.org.uk/england/relationships_e/relationships_living_together_marriage_and_civil_partnership_e/living_together_and_marriage_legal_differences.htm#Ending_a_relationship

static.advicenow.org.uk/files/benefits-and-livingtogether-2010-11-1161.pdf

DirectGov advice on divorce, separation and relationship breakdown:
www.direct.gov.uk/en/Governmentcitizensandrights/Divorceseparationandrelationshipbreakdown/index.htm

Legal Rights are further explained here:

www.rightsofwomen.org.uk/legal.php#children_relationship_breakdown

I found these guides from law firms quite informative and easy to read ? there are others of course:

www.family-lawfirm.co.uk/uploaded/documents/Surviving-Family-Conflict-and-Divorce---2nd-edition.pdf

www.terry.co.uk/hindex.html

Finance

Before you see a family law solicitor, get hold of every single piece of financial information you can, and take copies. Wage slips, P60s, tax returns, employment contracts, pensions and other statements ? savings, current account and mortgages, deeds, rental leases, utility bills, council tax bills, credit statements. Are there joint assets such as a home, pensions, savings, shares?

Handy tax credits calculator:

taxcredits.hmrc.gov.uk/Qualify/DIQHousehold.aspx

Handy 5 Minute benefit check, tax and housing benefit calculators:

www.moneysavingexpert.com/family/

Child Maintenance Calculator:

taxcredits.hmrc.gov.uk/Qualify/DIQHousehold.aspx

Further advice and support

www.maypole.org.uk/

www.womensaid.org.uk/

www.gingerbread.org.uk/

england.shelter.org.uk/get_advice/families_and_relationships
(Re Shelter, if you are not in England follow the link at the top)

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