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Relationships

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

Husband has announced he's leaving me

993 replies

stomachcramps · 24/07/2024 03:09

Hey 👋
I've been on Mumsnet since 2010 and I've posted many times previously and notably in times of crisis.
I've always received wise words and a handy hold.
Excuse my jocular tone - I think I'm just in shock.
I posted back in 2012 when my husband cheated on his stag do.
I ignored most of the advice given and stayed with him.
We've had our ups and downs but I'd consider it, up until now, to have been a successful and happy marriage.
He sat me down earlier and just said: I need to talk to you.
There's someone else.
That's it - He's leaving.
Not now, but soon.
Upping and going.
He cried loads. I was emotionless and motionless.
Mumsnet - you're famous for helping women to get their ducks in a row. What do I need to know? Be wary of?
We have an eleven year old who starts high school in September.
(D)H plans to move 300 miles away to be with the fifteen years newer and shinier model of me.

OP posts:
BurntBroccoli · 24/07/2024 17:47

masomenos · 24/07/2024 15:53

This woman lives in the next village along from his parents?

I'm so sorry, OP, but I think you need to brace yourself for bigger shocks. There are no coincidences in life. He may not have met her (doubt it) but I think he knows her or knows of her. They've both made a plan for their future together: hence the "not now, but soon", her having recently become single and having 2 DC, him a twattish arsehole. They've got it all sorted out in terms of their own next steps, and they've been talking about it for a while. 5 weeks is bullshit.

He hasn't told you the whole truth yet.

HOWEVER, it doesn't matter. None of it does, it's just details behind the one thing that does matter which is that he's left your DS and you. Seize control of the situation. Get him out. Gone. Send him to her, to his football-themed bedroom in his parents' house - wherever. He doesn't get to mess around your and your son's life like this. Make an emergency appointment for a quickie divorce, say whatever needs to be said (you have the financial upper hand) and get him out of your life. You've got 6 weeks before school starts again, your son is going to go through a lot the rest of 2024. Make him and yourself your focus, and get this man out of your mind, home and life.

I wonder if she's a blast from his past?

BlackShuck3 · 24/07/2024 18:03

They've never met!!!!
😬😮
He'll be back, begging & pleading . . .

LilacRaven · 24/07/2024 18:06

masomenos · 24/07/2024 15:53

This woman lives in the next village along from his parents?

I'm so sorry, OP, but I think you need to brace yourself for bigger shocks. There are no coincidences in life. He may not have met her (doubt it) but I think he knows her or knows of her. They've both made a plan for their future together: hence the "not now, but soon", her having recently become single and having 2 DC, him a twattish arsehole. They've got it all sorted out in terms of their own next steps, and they've been talking about it for a while. 5 weeks is bullshit.

He hasn't told you the whole truth yet.

HOWEVER, it doesn't matter. None of it does, it's just details behind the one thing that does matter which is that he's left your DS and you. Seize control of the situation. Get him out. Gone. Send him to her, to his football-themed bedroom in his parents' house - wherever. He doesn't get to mess around your and your son's life like this. Make an emergency appointment for a quickie divorce, say whatever needs to be said (you have the financial upper hand) and get him out of your life. You've got 6 weeks before school starts again, your son is going to go through a lot the rest of 2024. Make him and yourself your focus, and get this man out of your mind, home and life.

Totally agree with what this poster said

You sound so lovely and I can see your anger at him isn't just about you but how this is going to impact his son which is so selfish of him.

You've got this though. Focus on you and your son and try not to give your ex the time of day. It will be so shit for a while but one day you'll be laughing once you've moved on and he comes crying back.

Sending hugs and best wishes xx

stomachcramps · 24/07/2024 18:15

Apologies if this is all jumbled - my head is all over the place.
We've been together fourteen years and he rarely visits in-laws and we always go together.
As ridiculous as it all sounds, I do believe he's that stupid and blinded with lust that he's not met her yet and it has only been five weeks.
He's too stupid to lie consistently as his memory is utter shit.
I asked when he's going and he says: not yet... I'll have to work my notice.
I said that's a matter or a week or two - you could resign now whilst you're on holidays, stay on holiday and not go back.
I've told him NOT to tell son until after the pair of them have had their wee break with the in-laws.
I've deliberately kept the summer really low key and quiet to minimise upheaval.
I want him to enjoy spending time with his gran and papa, and his cousins.

His parents are going to flip. My father in law has often joked that the guarantee is up and I can't give him back.,.

I've been shopping, done the garden. I'm currently sorting the washing whilst playing love on the rocks and other pointed songs. Occasionally chuckling to myself... but not too much in case it trips into maniacal laughter.

Already arranged, my friend, my sister and my nephew are coming to stay with me next week whilst DH and DS are away. I'll go to a solicitor then.

Going forward, I'm staying out - my son has been through enough without moving house too. Plus I've worked my fucking arse off for this and they'll carry me out in a box or handcuffs. No fucking man will take away what's mine and my sons.

Worked out that he only pays sky and our mobiles. Quite happy to live without that.

More than happy to live without falling over all his latest hobby shit - he really is a massively overgrown child.

Just think! I'll pay NO MORE THAN I DO ALREADY with less on takeaways and utter fucking shit that's his latest fad:

No more: fishing chairs, electric scooters, shisha pipes, wee guns, cooking equipment that gets used once, hot tubs, man caves and bars...

Life will be good. I just need to get over this really awful bit.

I've always felt secure in his love for me. He's always worshipped me. I feel bereft that he doesn't want me anymore.

He's been trying to make me eat all day - constantly offering different meals and has made two which are in the fridge.

I can't eat. I'd choke.

Sorry so long but it's kind of like a stream of consciousness at this point.

I've bought the wee man all the treats I usually say no to when he badgers at the supermarket. Donuts, magazines, hot chocolate, marshmallows, Lego, kinder egg, crappy cereal with wee charms in it etc. The poor wee soul needs some joy before this shit storm hits.

Funny... YouTube just playing whatever on next now and it's a little time... hahaha. "You'll need a little room for a thousand beds, won't you, won't you?
The freedom that you wanted back is yours for good, I'm hope you're glad.
Sad into unsad"

OP posts:
TamingofShrews · 24/07/2024 18:16

I’m mesmerised that he could leave for a tiktoker that he’s never met?!
I expect he’ll try and come back quite soon on OP. (Obviously, I don’t think you should take him!)

BlackShuck3 · 24/07/2024 18:20

@stomachcramps I'm so sorry, you will be ok, when you are through this rough and painful section your life will be smoother🙏💗

LilacRaven · 24/07/2024 18:25

I've always felt secure in his love for me. He's always worshipped me. I feel bereft that he doesn't want me anymore.

I thought he cheated on you on his stag do? Not saying this to stick the knife in as I appreciate you are already in pieces I just don't want you giving the dickhead any credit when hes treated you like shit in the past and it sounds like you've been the one to appease him only for him to throw it back in your face.

BurntBroccoli · 24/07/2024 18:27

I hope he's not arranged to meet up with her on the break? Plus tries to introduce son to her kids?
Bloody hell OP - what a mess.

savethatkitty · 24/07/2024 18:30

I'm sorry to hear OP.

I'd tell some trusted friends/family/colleagues. You will want to vent & have some support. Sometimes, it can seem "embarrassing" when marriage breaks down but you've not done anything wrong so you don't need to feel embarrassed.

I'm not much help really, but I guess see what benefits etc you are entitled to. Seek out the services of a good lawyer. In Australia, you can seek a small portion of legal advice for free, so maybe see if that's an option, if money is tight.

In terms of your children, I'd tell them now, obviously in age appropriate way. They will be angry. They'll place blame but I believe they should know. Good luck

AgataH · 24/07/2024 18:38

BowlOfNoodles · 24/07/2024 07:10

I actually hope he's being catfished

YES! I’m thinking the same thing now that I learnt they never met. That’s ridiculous!

BowlOfNoodles · 24/07/2024 18:39

stomachcramps · 24/07/2024 18:15

Apologies if this is all jumbled - my head is all over the place.
We've been together fourteen years and he rarely visits in-laws and we always go together.
As ridiculous as it all sounds, I do believe he's that stupid and blinded with lust that he's not met her yet and it has only been five weeks.
He's too stupid to lie consistently as his memory is utter shit.
I asked when he's going and he says: not yet... I'll have to work my notice.
I said that's a matter or a week or two - you could resign now whilst you're on holidays, stay on holiday and not go back.
I've told him NOT to tell son until after the pair of them have had their wee break with the in-laws.
I've deliberately kept the summer really low key and quiet to minimise upheaval.
I want him to enjoy spending time with his gran and papa, and his cousins.

His parents are going to flip. My father in law has often joked that the guarantee is up and I can't give him back.,.

I've been shopping, done the garden. I'm currently sorting the washing whilst playing love on the rocks and other pointed songs. Occasionally chuckling to myself... but not too much in case it trips into maniacal laughter.

Already arranged, my friend, my sister and my nephew are coming to stay with me next week whilst DH and DS are away. I'll go to a solicitor then.

Going forward, I'm staying out - my son has been through enough without moving house too. Plus I've worked my fucking arse off for this and they'll carry me out in a box or handcuffs. No fucking man will take away what's mine and my sons.

Worked out that he only pays sky and our mobiles. Quite happy to live without that.

More than happy to live without falling over all his latest hobby shit - he really is a massively overgrown child.

Just think! I'll pay NO MORE THAN I DO ALREADY with less on takeaways and utter fucking shit that's his latest fad:

No more: fishing chairs, electric scooters, shisha pipes, wee guns, cooking equipment that gets used once, hot tubs, man caves and bars...

Life will be good. I just need to get over this really awful bit.

I've always felt secure in his love for me. He's always worshipped me. I feel bereft that he doesn't want me anymore.

He's been trying to make me eat all day - constantly offering different meals and has made two which are in the fridge.

I can't eat. I'd choke.

Sorry so long but it's kind of like a stream of consciousness at this point.

I've bought the wee man all the treats I usually say no to when he badgers at the supermarket. Donuts, magazines, hot chocolate, marshmallows, Lego, kinder egg, crappy cereal with wee charms in it etc. The poor wee soul needs some joy before this shit storm hits.

Funny... YouTube just playing whatever on next now and it's a little time... hahaha. "You'll need a little room for a thousand beds, won't you, won't you?
The freedom that you wanted back is yours for good, I'm hope you're glad.
Sad into unsad"

You are absolutely fantastic and fabulous 👌 👏

BowlOfNoodles · 24/07/2024 18:41

AgataH · 24/07/2024 18:38

YES! I’m thinking the same thing now that I learnt they never met. That’s ridiculous!

You see it often! Why can't he go immediately and see her in he's free time? 5 weeks of texting what a prat

Vroomfondleswaistcoat · 24/07/2024 18:42

As a PP said, he's actually visiting his parents in the next village to this woman? Then he's almost certainly 'met' her by now... so just be prepared in case he comes home, denies he said any such thing about leaving you and expects you to go back to 'normal' (having established that she was using such powerful filters on Tik Tok that she looks nothing like he expects and her children are feral).

fetchacloth · 24/07/2024 18:44

Aubree17 · 24/07/2024 04:11

It's the same old pattern.
Guaranteed it won't work out with new woman and he'll be crawling back within a year.
Good luck OP. Find the strength to find someone better. He doesn't deserve you and your DD.

Definitely this. He doesn't deserve either of you.
I'm so sorry OP 💐

Miyagi99 · 24/07/2024 18:46

Well this is going to bite him on the bum! Hold firm and take full advantage of this situation now to be free of him once and for all. Children are very resilient and as long as you are strong you’ll both get through it. Good luck x

Loley22 · 24/07/2024 18:53

What a bell end he is. If he does go over and see her when at PILs expect him to realise the reality isn't what he was expecting and try and crawl.his way back. Hope things go your way with the solicitor and as you say he has a shred of decency not to try and take what he has contributed sweet fa towards xx

Emily1583 · 24/07/2024 18:54

SwordToFlamethrower · 24/07/2024 08:37

Burn his clothes or throw bleach on them.

Key his car, spray it with the words "cheating bastard"

Shred his passport

Destroy his hobby items (pour water on his xbox etc)

Tell his work he is a pedo.

Go see a lawyer.

In that order.

Jesus wept, what an immature comment.

User5854377ghf466 · 24/07/2024 18:56

I am really sorry you are going through this OP, but honestly it sounds like you are waaaay too good for him. I hope you and your son find strength in each other and live your best lives because my goodness, it sounds like your husband is going to wake up one day wondering WTF he has done.

Emily1583 · 24/07/2024 18:57

Ok Op, he's admitted infidelity. That should make the divorce quick and easy. It's going to be a rocky few months adjusting to what's happened and getting over it but get yourself a good lawyer and seek to terminate the marriage so you can move on.

Saintmariesleuth · 24/07/2024 18:59

Just adding some moral support OP. I'm glad you've got some real life support from family and friends, and it sounds like you have the practical angles covered. It sounds like you ate very pragmatic about managing things predominantly alone (he sounds like an unreliable fuckwit).

You can manage this. You are doing fantastically. Let yourself feel sad, angry, shocked and relieved. Be kind to yourself and take things 1 step at a time.

DontGoBackForYourHat · 24/07/2024 19:07

FangsForTheMemory · 24/07/2024 06:31

He’s known her just five weeks? FFS. He’ll want to come back within the month. The wanker. Make it clear that he’s burnt his bridges.

Wow, agree, astonishing that he's STUPID enough to believe he should make this decision after five weeks. That really does indicate what a stupid man he is. Sorry. He will be back to you in about 7 months but do not take him back.

Try to get as much sorted out in the next few months as you possibly can.

AgataH · 24/07/2024 19:10

stomachcramps · 24/07/2024 18:15

Apologies if this is all jumbled - my head is all over the place.
We've been together fourteen years and he rarely visits in-laws and we always go together.
As ridiculous as it all sounds, I do believe he's that stupid and blinded with lust that he's not met her yet and it has only been five weeks.
He's too stupid to lie consistently as his memory is utter shit.
I asked when he's going and he says: not yet... I'll have to work my notice.
I said that's a matter or a week or two - you could resign now whilst you're on holidays, stay on holiday and not go back.
I've told him NOT to tell son until after the pair of them have had their wee break with the in-laws.
I've deliberately kept the summer really low key and quiet to minimise upheaval.
I want him to enjoy spending time with his gran and papa, and his cousins.

His parents are going to flip. My father in law has often joked that the guarantee is up and I can't give him back.,.

I've been shopping, done the garden. I'm currently sorting the washing whilst playing love on the rocks and other pointed songs. Occasionally chuckling to myself... but not too much in case it trips into maniacal laughter.

Already arranged, my friend, my sister and my nephew are coming to stay with me next week whilst DH and DS are away. I'll go to a solicitor then.

Going forward, I'm staying out - my son has been through enough without moving house too. Plus I've worked my fucking arse off for this and they'll carry me out in a box or handcuffs. No fucking man will take away what's mine and my sons.

Worked out that he only pays sky and our mobiles. Quite happy to live without that.

More than happy to live without falling over all his latest hobby shit - he really is a massively overgrown child.

Just think! I'll pay NO MORE THAN I DO ALREADY with less on takeaways and utter fucking shit that's his latest fad:

No more: fishing chairs, electric scooters, shisha pipes, wee guns, cooking equipment that gets used once, hot tubs, man caves and bars...

Life will be good. I just need to get over this really awful bit.

I've always felt secure in his love for me. He's always worshipped me. I feel bereft that he doesn't want me anymore.

He's been trying to make me eat all day - constantly offering different meals and has made two which are in the fridge.

I can't eat. I'd choke.

Sorry so long but it's kind of like a stream of consciousness at this point.

I've bought the wee man all the treats I usually say no to when he badgers at the supermarket. Donuts, magazines, hot chocolate, marshmallows, Lego, kinder egg, crappy cereal with wee charms in it etc. The poor wee soul needs some joy before this shit storm hits.

Funny... YouTube just playing whatever on next now and it's a little time... hahaha. "You'll need a little room for a thousand beds, won't you, won't you?
The freedom that you wanted back is yours for good, I'm hope you're glad.
Sad into unsad"

Sit comfortably, in stillness and silence and take a few deep breaths. Concentrate on the air going in and out. Breathe with your stomach, deep breaths. Pay attention how your body expands when the air is going in. With every exhale, exhale your anger, frustration, confusion. Exhale all bad emotions you’re holding in you right now.
With every inhale invision peace and warmth surrounding you. Feel the universe energy entering your body and giving you strength. Feel safe and whole the way you are, connected to the universe.

Now, going back to your husband. Please don’t think “he doesn’t want you”. I’m starting to think he might be going thru middle age crisis of some sort and this is his cry for help. Originally I was under impression he’s been having an affair and decided to leave. Now, knowing they never met I’m not so sure. Maybe he doesn’t want to leave at all. In fact perhaps he wants to stay and have more meaningful relationship with you? He doesn’t know how to get there, he’s lacking skills to communicate so he acts up like a child. Being an adult this acting up makes him look like an idiot.
You mentioned he cried and now is trying to feed you. Even when he said he’s leaving “not now but soon” seems like maybe he was waiting for you to say “please don’t”. Is it possible he has self esteem issues and seeks reassurance from you that he’s worthy and loved? Is he trying to get your attention this way?

Let’s pause for a moment. Do not get upset or worry. Observe him. A part of me believes he might need help. As unacceptable as it is to act the way he’s acting right now, I feel he might be trying to communicate his insecurities.

Apolloneuro · 24/07/2024 19:14

OP, next time he’s in earshot get Alexa to play ‘The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived’ by Taylor Swift 😁

PhantomSmoke · 24/07/2024 19:15

AgataH · 24/07/2024 19:10

Sit comfortably, in stillness and silence and take a few deep breaths. Concentrate on the air going in and out. Breathe with your stomach, deep breaths. Pay attention how your body expands when the air is going in. With every exhale, exhale your anger, frustration, confusion. Exhale all bad emotions you’re holding in you right now.
With every inhale invision peace and warmth surrounding you. Feel the universe energy entering your body and giving you strength. Feel safe and whole the way you are, connected to the universe.

Now, going back to your husband. Please don’t think “he doesn’t want you”. I’m starting to think he might be going thru middle age crisis of some sort and this is his cry for help. Originally I was under impression he’s been having an affair and decided to leave. Now, knowing they never met I’m not so sure. Maybe he doesn’t want to leave at all. In fact perhaps he wants to stay and have more meaningful relationship with you? He doesn’t know how to get there, he’s lacking skills to communicate so he acts up like a child. Being an adult this acting up makes him look like an idiot.
You mentioned he cried and now is trying to feed you. Even when he said he’s leaving “not now but soon” seems like maybe he was waiting for you to say “please don’t”. Is it possible he has self esteem issues and seeks reassurance from you that he’s worthy and loved? Is he trying to get your attention this way?

Let’s pause for a moment. Do not get upset or worry. Observe him. A part of me believes he might need help. As unacceptable as it is to act the way he’s acting right now, I feel he might be trying to communicate his insecurities.

🤢

GanninHyem · 24/07/2024 19:16

I'm sorry, he only pays for sky and mobile phones? Jesus Christ woman, why have you been letting him get away with that?? I really hope you can get a SHL and retain the house without having to buy him out or for a paltry sum.
Sounds like you're well shot and I know this hurts like hell now but it will get better. So much better than being shackled to a loser. I honestly don't understand how someone can move that far away from their child.

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