When I started dating Garran, I thought he was perfect — a charming 39-year-old dad devoted to his two kids. But after months of weekly dinners with his children, I realized something was off. Every single time the bill arrived, Garran would suddenly “forget” his wallet, leaving me to cover expensive meals I could barely afford.

At first, I gave him the benefit of the doubt. But by the fifth “accident,” it was clear he was taking advantage of me. Still, I stayed quiet because I didn’t want to embarrass him in front of his kids. Meanwhile, my savings were disappearing, and the stress was becoming unbearable.

My sister urged me to stand up for myself, but I felt guilty. Garran spoiled his kids with extravagant orders — seafood platters, giant milkshakes, desserts pricier than my weekly groceries — all while insisting they “deserved to enjoy themselves.” He never once noticed how anxious I was handing over my card each time.

Deep down, I hoped he would eventually realize how unfair he was being. But he never did. And with every dinner, every forgotten wallet, and every mounting bill, it became painfully clear that he wasn’t the flawless partner I thought he was — just someone who took advantage of my kindness.