I Was Allowed to Choose Which Parent to Live With—Two Years Later, I Regretted My Decision

I was allowed to choose which parent I wanted to live with. Two years later, I deeply regretted my decision.

I always thought my dad loved me more than my mum did. He spoiled me; she scolded me. He was the peacemaker, while she was always the first to argue. So when I found out about their divorce, part of me was almost relieved. At thirteen, I had no intention of staying with my mumplus, I figured Dad, being the breadwinner, could take better care of me. My parents were curious about my choice. Mum hoped Id pick her, but she wasnt the least bit surprised when I chose Dad.

A year after we moved out, Momsorry, *Dad*found himself a new girlfriend. She was about the same age as my mum, and he was absolutely smitten. She was polite enough to me, but there was none of the warmth or love my mum had given me. Then they had a baby together, and suddenly, it was like I didnt exist. Theyd go on tripsjust the three of themwithout a second thought about inviting me. Theyd have fancy dinners when I wasnt around. My old room was now a nursery, and since the baby arrived, I hadnt slept properlynight feeds, crying, lights flicking on at all hours

Dad didnt care how it affected my mood or grades. He barely batted an eye when I stayed out late with friends. Eventually, I realised this couldnt go on. I wanted to go to uni, I had plans, and if I kept losing sleep, Id never pass my exams. So, swallowing my pride, I rang Mum.

“Can I come over?” I asked, trying not to sound too hopeful. I rarely called, let alone visited.
“Of course, love. Stay as long as you like. The babys keeping you up, isnt she?”

I felt sorry for Mum. Dad had a new family and new worries, but she was still completely alone.

I asked Dad if I could stay with Mum for a while, and he agreed straight away. He promised to send moneythen never called. In a weird way, it was easier for everyone. Maybe because Im older now, but Mum and I get on like mates. She looks after me, cheers me on, while Dad and I occasionally chat on the phone. He thinks Im all grown up, but Mum still fussesmaking me dinner after work, treating me like a kid sometimes.

If I could go back, Id probably choose to stay with her. But then again, maybe Id regret that just as much, wondering if the grass was greener on the other side.

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I Was Allowed to Choose Which Parent to Live With—Two Years Later, I Regretted My Decision
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