My partner broke up with me 2+ months ago after a 2 year relationship. His reason was that 'he wasn't able to commit to me because he needed to be with someone nearer his age.' He is in his late 20s, I am in my 30s.
He contacted me recently to 'check in and see how I was doing.' I sent a friendly response but later asked him not to contact me again, having been told by a 3rd party that things were not working out with his new gf and that he may have been contacting me in case he needed a 'safety net.' I did not explain to him why I didn't want further contact.
I need to return his things, which I plan to do via a 3rd party/or leave on his doorstep. However, I am tempted to add another manly item to the box that clearly does not belong to him. I'm thinking a something innocuous like a belt or socks.
I know it seems petty but he was sooo patronising about me finding someone new because (and I quote) 'time is not on my side'!
I also think this will address the safety-net issue indirectly.
I should note that we work at the same company and I have thus far remained professional and I don't want to undo this and undermine the dignity with which I have conducted myself.
What are your thoughts please? Is this too subtle or not subtle enough?