MY HUSBAND DEMANDED A THIRD CHILD—AFTER MY RESPONSE, HE KICKED ME OUT, BUT I TURNED THE TABLES ON HIM
My husband (43) and I (32) have been married for 12 years and share two kids, a 10-year-old daughter and a 5-year-old son.
Lately, my husband has been insisting on having a third child, and the thought fills me with dread. I love my kids and always dreamed of a big family, but the reality is overwhelming. I handle everything—cooking, cleaning, parenting, and working part-time from home. My husband "provides," but that's where his involvement ends. He's never changed a diaper, woken up at night, or taken the kids to a doctor. It's all me. The idea of managing another pregnancy and a baby alone is unbearable.
Last night, after another one of his speeches about how he's such a great provider and why we "should" have another child, I snapped. I told him he's not the amazing husband and father he thinks he is. Our kids barely know him because he's either absent or snapping at them. I told him I refuse to be a single mom to a third child when two are already more than enough.
He was stunned, called me ungrateful, and stormed off to his mother's house. The next day, he came back, accused me of not loving him because I didn't want more kids, and demanded I pack my things and leave. I was shocked, but I complied. As I stood at the door with my bags, I turned to him, said one sentence, and watched as his face turned pale with shock and anger.
For over a decade, I shared my life with Eric, believing our marriage was built on love and partnership. Yet, behind closed doors, the imbalance was undeniable. I juggled work, chores, and childcare while Eric’s contribution rarely went beyond his paycheck, leaving me exhausted and unappreciated.
The breaking point came when I asked for an hour to myself. His dismissive response—”Moms don’t get breaks”—cut deep, confirming my worth was taken for granted. It was clear I couldn’t continue living this way.
When Eric suggested having another baby, ignoring my struggles, I realized nothing would change. So, I chose myself and walked away, determined to rebuild a life where my efforts were valued.
Leaving wasn’t easy, but it was necessary. Through self-reflection and my children’s love, I found strength. Today, I live with resilience, self-respect, and the belief that true empowerment starts with honoring your own needs.