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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

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What on earth happened?

779 replies

Newbie96 · 01/03/2021 10:55

Hi everyone, long time reader but first-time poster. I'll just jump straight into it. Please be kind.

My boyfriend and I have been together officially for a year, we've known each other since we were around 13 - 14 and attempted to make a go of it as teenagers (around 18) but it never worked. We've been in contact ever since because we both have mutually been drawn to one another. He often tells me he has compared every woman he's been with to me and to be honest I've done the same.

I am now 25 and he is 27. We got together just before lockdown last year and have spent nearly every waking second with each other since. We had been spending a lot of time together prior to lockdown happening and we both jumped at the opportunity to become each other's support bubbles when the time came and to be honest, it has been total bliss, we genuinely never argue, he is like my bestfriend.

Luckily for us, the lockdown has been kind to us mostly because we've had each other to get through it and it has made us grow extremely closer. I can honestly say the past year we both have agreed that we have been the happiest we've ever been, our relationship being one of the main reasons.

We both live alone and so we stay back and forth between his place and mine, only having to travel now and then for work etc. Due to our history and of course how much time we've spent together, emotions have definitely intensified and I am very much in love with this man, he knows this and tells me he feels the same way.

So fast forward to the weekend just gone, we had planned that I would spend the weekend at his house. I arrive at around 6:30 on Friday evening and things are good but I can sense that something is off/ or that he isn't exactly in the mood. I decide to ignore it but it seems to only get worse. Usually, we would sit down, have a conversation about our day and watch a series episode together which we commentate back and forth with each other but this time it's pure silence. Neither of us was physical with each other, he actually even sat on the furthest part of the sofa away from me. I can honestly say this was the first time I felt a little unwelcome in his home, which is odd considering how much time I have spent there and I've never felt this way before.

I mean maybe I overlooked everything far too much so please tell me if that appears to be the case. An hour of silence goes by, most of the time it was him on his phone whilst I watched the episode by myself, he stands up and asks if I am hungry, I say yeah and he says okay I will cook something for us. As it was the first proper real words we had spoken to each other all night, I decided to ask if everything was okay? he says yeah so in a jokey, laughing tone I ask if he wants me over tonight as it feels a little as if I'm intruding.

Well what happens next I didn't expect it at all, he is stood in the doorway of the living room and begins to get more and more wound up, he starts off by saying "of course I want you over but you have been sat there all night with this miserable look on your face, giving off bad energy" his voice is slightly raised but I don't retaliate and I calmy say "okay well I must have read it wrong, I wasn't trying to give off bad energy, I've been looking forward to seeing you all day" but he is so annoyed and goes off again accusing me of being the reason why the energy is so wrong between us tonight and how dare I blame him for it. I apologise again and say that I must have had a long day. He then goes on to say "well this is weird for me now so I think its best you leave" I am in shock as he walks out of the living room into the kitchen, in an attempt to let things settle, I leave it 5 minutes and walk into the kitchen with him and ask if he would really like me to leave? He responds "I'm just saying maybe its best", the thing is I can see on his face he is visually angry and in my head, I can't figure out why he is so annoyed, over something that in my mind was so trivial and silly. Like a fricken helpless puppy dog, I look at him again and ask if HE wants me to leave? and he responds "you know what yeah I do".

I take myself to the other room and begin packing up my stuff and I can hear him stomping and slamming about. I obviously felt a little confused because the whole situation felt extremely blown out of proportion. Once my things are packed I give it one last attempt and go and sit next to him on the sofa, I ask him if we can talk about this and I gently reach my hand out to touch his arm, but he blows up and is practically foaming from the mouth shouting at me not to touch him and that he just wants me to leave, at one point he swings the front door open and walks out of the front door in nothing his dressing gown, I don't chase him because I was honestly just shocked. He begins texting me telling me to leave his house or he won't come back? - I replied and told him I'm leaving but I would have appreciated it if he came back and just spoke to me. After 5/6 minutes pass, he comes storming back into the flat, pushing past me in the hall and is still foaming at the mouth shouting at how it's my fault and I'm making it worse by not leaving. Like a fool, I started to cry because I could see this has all escalated into a situation I didn't want for us at all. He tells me crying doesn't help the situation so tearfully I leave. As I wait outside for a cab, I check my phone and notice that he has blocked my number, my WhatsApp and my Instagram. I am totally confused and hurt by all of this and in my honest moment of craziness, I create another account on Instagram and message "I'm sorry for everything that just happened, I didn't expect any of that. I accept I was in the wrong and that I read the situation wrong, please can we talk when things are calmer?" he replies "please just let me know when you are home as I won't be able to sleep until I know your home" I leave it and let him know I am home, he bluntly replies "good, night" I again press on and I ask if we can talk? he responds and says "no I just want to go to sleep, we have been so good lately and now I'm laying here crying," I tell him I love him and that I don't want him to be sad, he replies and says he knows I do and that I should go to sleep.

Saturday morning comes and I message saying I hope he is okay and that again when things are calmer can we talk about this? he reads and doesn't respond. Sunday I message again along the same lines but telling him I miss him, again he reads and doesn't respond.

This morning I received a message from him saying "I told you that you were just making everything worse on Friday and you just didn't listen, you just thought you knew better and now I'm going to show you what I meant. I don't care, sorry" I sent some messages, honestly being very weak and pitiful, telling him that I would just like us to talk and sort this out as I miss him and this isn't like us at all, I then check for a response and he has blocked me from that account as well, so there are no ways of contacting him.

I just can't make sense of it all, we have never argued like this ever. I didn't expect him to blow up the way he did after asking him if everything was okay. I just feel like its all my fault for ruining something that we had so good. I feel really sad, low and alone and just wish he would calm down and speak to me.

Please give me your take on this entire, childish and shit situation. Did I do something wrong? and is he really never going to speak to me again over that?

Thank you

OP posts:
CleverCatty · 02/03/2021 11:22

Also - OP - hate to say this but sad truth knowing my DB and his 'weed' friends - the vast majority of them - especially if heavy smokers, and even more so if using mind altering strong stuff like skunk, you don't want your boyfriend to be like that with his moods.

It's interesting - I know the DD of a good friend of mine - she smoked weed in her teens, in her early 20s has recently come off it - and did a great video blog saying she was off it, how it's affected her and how for the first time she's dreamed properly - didn't do that with weed smoking apparently!

Newbie96 · 02/03/2021 11:23

Thank you, everyone!
I don't know what annoys me more, the fact he potentially has left me for someone else OR left me because he wanted a joint.
Either way, I thought we were both adults here...

OP posts:
Parkperson · 02/03/2021 11:25

I agree with all the posters who think he was wanting some weed. He was not behaving rationally and wanted his evening free to indulge in a joint and he knew you would not approve. Hopefully, he is feeling very very ashamed of himself. He will come back, OP, you sound much too nice to leave. You just have to decide what you want to do when he comes back.

Goodytoshoes · 02/03/2021 11:25

Omg you poor thing 😔 your heart must be broke. I remember going through a particularly bad breakup year ago, and the only thing that got me through it was turning my phone off and giving it to a friend so I couldn't contact him, sounds OTT, but it genuinely worked as I would only check my phone once a week until I was over it. Wouldn't be for everyone though lol after about a month I felt like myself again. How are you feeling today?

nokia3210567 · 02/03/2021 11:28

Run for the hills

gutful · 02/03/2021 11:28

@CleverCatty It's true, as a chronic smoker can attest to the vivid dreams you get when detoxing from weed use.

TonTonMacoute · 02/03/2021 11:29

Sorry to hear this OP, you deserve better but you have had good advice here.

I know from past experience that it is the lack of any reasonable explanation that is so hard, it is very difficult to just accept and move on from that. However, him insisting that it is absolutely your fault is a sure sign that it is not your fault, although I'm afraid you may never get a real explanation or apology from him.

Flowers
Youllbeoldertoo · 02/03/2021 11:31

@Newbie96

The good news here is that your 25, lockdown is coming to an end, spring is round the corner and you can have a Sumer of hanging out with mates and meeting new people ahead of you. You’re going to meet someone else and thank your lucky stars this dope smoker should you his true colours! Good luck you have a bright future ahead.

Newbie96 · 02/03/2021 11:32

Thank you for asking, Goodytoshoes, to be honest, I feel completely numb. I think I'm over the shock of it all but it just hurts, you know? Whilst I am at work I have to bottle it in and put on a smile but I'm finding it quite hard today. I just have a constant lump in my throat, I'm sure when I go home again today, the tears will flow again.
I hope your well today x

OP posts:
CleverCatty · 02/03/2021 11:33

[quote gutful]@CleverCatty It's true, as a chronic smoker can attest to the vivid dreams you get when detoxing from weed use.[/quote]
Thanks - guessed this but wasn't sure.

I know lots of people are very 'relaxed' about weed use but personally after seeing my DB and his friends get moreorless addicted to it - the dealer would drive round every week to their houses/flats etc I think they were 'addicted'.

Apart from hash brownies a couple of time (and other recreational drug use) I never smoked so didn't like the idea of weed!

Viviennemary · 02/03/2021 11:35

I agree that the likeliehood is that he wants to finish it. He has concocted this silly row out of nothing to try to put the blame on you. Don't contact him again. If he contacts you message back we are finished.

ContessaDiPulpo · 02/03/2021 11:39

I'm glad you're feeling annoyance in the mix of emotions OP - he has behaved badly, annoyance is well deserved. Hang onto that feeling for when he tries to pretend it's all cool and is all hurt and surprised when you don't want to pick things back up where they left off....

NotTerfNorCis · 02/03/2021 11:40

Hi OP, I'm so sorry that this happened. It must hurt tremendously as you've known him for such a long time. I can only suggest that you leave him to it - if you do get back together, he might blow up again in future. Move on with your life, step by step.

Vestinium · 02/03/2021 11:42

Block him and move on. Once it happens this is how your life will be. I've had twenty years of this and finally called it quits. Trust me, after years of wondering why the mood has suddenly changed, going over it in my head, trying to think of something light and cheerful to say as if I didn't notice, endlessly playing things over to find out what went wrong, I realised, I DON'T CARE BYE BYE.

Vestinium · 02/03/2021 11:42

Don't waste your life like I did.

GaryUnicorn · 02/03/2021 11:46

@Newbie96

Thank you for asking, Goodytoshoes, to be honest, I feel completely numb. I think I'm over the shock of it all but it just hurts, you know? Whilst I am at work I have to bottle it in and put on a smile but I'm finding it quite hard today. I just have a constant lump in my throat, I'm sure when I go home again today, the tears will flow again. I hope your well today x
I can remember being that hurt, and it is truly horrible. When you get home have a good cry. It’s not weak, and you need to release your emotions. Is there something you can do in your break at work to distract you? Looking for a new outfit? Planning a treat for someone who has been isolating? I know you are the one who needs a treat right now, but you could invite someone to a special day out once we’re allowed. How about planning a summer picnic for you and a group of friends/colleagues?
ImnotCarolineHirons · 02/03/2021 12:07

I immediately thought "guilty conscience".

He's done/was planning to do something wrong/you wouldn't approve of so he had to manufacture a row to get rid of you.
Whether it's another woman or weed or both or something else doesn't really matter, his behaviour was bad enough that it needs to be over.

I would work on your boundaries and people pleasing tendencies so that you're stronger and happier and open for a better relationship with a better guy when you're ready.

mainsfed · 02/03/2021 12:08

Sorry this happened, OP. I think you're well rid.

I helped him quite a bit financially during our relationship but of course, that doesnt mean he is expectant to treat me anyway because of that and I also didn't want anything in return, it was my choice to help and I'm still glad I did.

I was thinking whilst I read your OP that he used you in the pandemic so he didn't have to be alone, and this makes me think he was enjoying the treats too. How much did you spend on him and why are you glad? You need more backbone!

Rainbowshine, I think your right but this is also very disappointing as I'm a very understanding person and he knows this, yes I would have been hurt that he ended it but at least I wouldn't have blamed myself how i am now.

But why did you blame yourself? Surely you know you did nothing wrong, you took your cue from him.

CocoLady · 02/03/2021 12:14

Look up something called the SLOW FADE online on YouTube. This is not your fault. He's a coward. Stay strong. You will find better in the future.

CuntyMcBollocks · 02/03/2021 12:15

I think he's met someone else and is making you out to be the one in the wrong as he's too weak to end it himself. As much as it hurts, I'd stop all contact. He sounds extremely immature and you deserve to be treated better that the way he has treated you. You did NOTHING wrong. HE did.

Blacksheepcat · 02/03/2021 12:33

Gaslighting!!! Be glad you got out of this relationship...please don’t apologise to him (you did nothing wrong) or go back to him.

isthismylifenow · 02/03/2021 12:39

Newbie, I started a relationship with a very old friend as well. We had kept in touch for 30 years off and on after we finished school. Anyway to cut a long story short, we got together. Things were going well, up until a year into the relationship. Then the cracks really started to show. Not just from his side, but from mine too admittedly (although it took me some time to realise that bit) and after one really big blow out, it ended. It also seemed out of the blue but I didn't really take too much notice of the small cracks at the time.

Anyway, what I wanted to say was that while it was good, it was good. But it was never meant to be a long term thing. We are actually still in contact, although we weren't for a while just after the break up. And we are still friends, and I know we just make better friends than partners. In time, whether you stay in touch with him or not, is up to you. But not everyone we meet and have history with, is meant to be in our lives romantically. It ok to live, learn from what was and then move on.

Yes its a great big shock and it will take a little while to get over it, but you will. Take care Flowers

isthismylifenow · 02/03/2021 12:45

Sorry, I also meant to add that I really loved this man. I had come through a divorce not long before and thought I knew what love was, but this relationship was intense. I really took it so badly when it ended, so the feelings you are having, are totally normal. It was also the shock of it ending so suddenly that made it a bit worse iyswim.

MacDuffsMuff · 02/03/2021 12:49

@Newbie96

Thank you for asking, Goodytoshoes, to be honest, I feel completely numb. I think I'm over the shock of it all but it just hurts, you know? Whilst I am at work I have to bottle it in and put on a smile but I'm finding it quite hard today. I just have a constant lump in my throat, I'm sure when I go home again today, the tears will flow again. I hope your well today x
Ah OP, I feel so heartbroken for you.

My ex went from my flat one day, telling me he loved me and we made plans to see each other the following night. We'd been together for 3 years. I never saw him again, he completely ghosted me and I still don't know why. This was 30 years ago before social media and I was out of my mind with worry. No one 'seemed' to know how to contact him and I eventually got hold of him at work (I was in a phone box) almost a week later. By that time, I could tell by the reaction of his best friend, who I'd called, that he was fine but just didn't want to be with me anymore. By the time I spoke to him, I was angry, bereft, heartbroken and more and all I can remember him saying on the phone is 'yeah I'm alright thanks, just moved on - that ship has sailed for us'. I didn't make any attempt to contact him after that.

He broke my heart but actually, it made me realise that he really didn't deserve that. No one who very deliberately hurts another person is worth your tears. This man has acted appallingly OP and you deserve so, so much more.

stuckinatrap · 02/03/2021 12:58

This was my story too. From being friends for a long time and the amazing honeymoon period to the devastating sudden flip-out.

I let him come back. In his case it wasn't anything more sinister than he really, really doesn't know how to have an adult relationship and can't process his own feelings because he is emotionally stunted.

I stayed for 4 more years! (I'm so stupid) and it happened repeatedly. All going fine...sudden mood and withdrawal. One time I went round to his as arranged and he had left the key inside the door (which he NEVER does as he is a creature of habit and very security conscious) so I couldn't get in and he wouldn't answer the phone.

I went home and got increasingly angry, only for him to contact me the next day asking why I hadn't turned up. He had been doing DIY in the back room and hadn't heard his phone or me knocking on the door.

What a load of gaslighting bullshit that was.

He would admit - but not until months later - that there was something going on with him that he needed to process and wasn't ready to talk about it until he had 'the answer'. It's all manner of crap and if that was even true, an adult would have a conversation about it. Not be aggressive and disappear.

He once shouted at me because he suddenly pulled a withdrawal and I asked him what was up and his response was 'It's nothing to do with you. Why do you think everything is about you?'

By the time we split up (he left me for someone else totally out of the blue) I was a shell of a human and constantly waiting for the next emotional blow.

It made me detach a bit by the end and be less affected by his behaviour. One day I went round, he was in a temper about something and told me to fuck off. So I fucked off, laughing on the way home about what a toddler he was. He then got annoyed with me for leaving.

Ironically, when he had dumped me, he said he had got tempted by OW because I seemed to be 'less bothered than you used to be'.

It was all control.

And talking to you now, OP, I want to go back to the first time and say 'you don't get to treat me like that. I don't deserve it. Bye!' I can't, so you can do what I failed to do.

Don't go back. YOU take control of this now. Whether this is over or not is not his decision to make. You can choose to end it for yourself now and resolve to not let him back. Grey rock him if he turns up again. Have a response prepared:

'I don't accept people behaving towards me like you did. So I'm done. Goodbye'

Don't be me - do what I wish I had done.

Take care of yourself x