Jeremy and I agreed to divide all expenditures, including rent, when we married. I learned our apartment cost $2,000 per month from Jeremy. I gave him my $1,000 portion every month, believing him to send it to the landlord.
To compensate, I worked two jobs. My evenings were spent serving tables, while mornings were spent at an office. I hardly had time to sleep, but I thought it was worth it. I was saving for Jeremy and my goal of purchasing a house. Every shift, every arduous double shift, was for our future.
I thought everything was normal for two years.
One terrible December evening altered everything.
We chatted in an elevator with one of our neighbors. My heart sank as she revealed:
“Oh, you live in Mrs. Lorrie and Jeremy’s apartment, right?”
Mrs. Lorrie. Like Jeremy’s mom.
Confused, I asked about her statement. She proceeded unaware that the neighbor was releasing a significant bombshell:
“Yes, Jeremy’s mom bought that apartment years ago! She rented it till he moved in with his ex. You two settled in!”
Hear this, my heart freezes. During this period, I avoided landlord rent. I deposited money straight into Jeremy and his mother’s pocketbook.
I gave them $24,000 unintentionally for two years while depriving myself of rest and exhausting myself.
My rage didn’t take over within. Instead, I phoned Jeremy gently.
I said, “Hey, babe,” acting lovely. “When is rent due again?”
“December 28,” he said casually.
Perfect.
My role was to laugh at his jokes, cook, and look good for two weeks. Behind the scenes, I planned my exit.
I departed with my basics and funds on December 27. I moved in with a good buddy while planning my next move. I confronted Jeremy before leaving.
That night, I sat him down and asked, “Why didn’t you ever mention that the apartment was your mom’s?”
His face paled ghastly. “What do you mean?” he stumbled.
“I know everything. You stole my money and lied. It went into your family’s pocketbook, therefore there was no ‘landlord’ Do you understand how many midnight shifts I did for mock rent?
Denials, excuses, and apologies plagued Jeremy. None of his words could restore faith.
Next morning, I saw a lawyer and started divorce proceedings. The lawyer asked me, “Do you have a copy of your lease?” when addressing my situation.
I searched for it, confused yet curious. I was shocked to discover the lease was forged.
Jeremy forged a leasing agreement to make us tenants. In actuality, the property was never lawfully rented. Legally, he deceived me into paying.
With this information, my lawyer said we had a strong legal case. So I divorced Jeremy and accused him of fraud. I won, and Jeremy and his mother had to repay the $24,000 I paid.
Stepping out of that courtroom lifted my burden. After being used and tricked, I regained my pride, wealth, and future.
I learned from this that financial arrangements should always be verified, even in marriage. Honesty and transparency matter. Most essential, follow your instincts and investigate if something seems wrong.
Have you discovered a relationship financial secret? Please share your views and experiences!