The following few days, I felt a little numb, but relieved. The first thing that was nice was that we could wander around the house, talking, laughing and being ourselves without worrying that he would be asleep, and so we should be quiet.
My first night alone in the house once the kids went home was perfect.
For many years you see, the impact of his shift working was that all the times when people are normally socialising, were the times when he was in bed. Afternoons, evenings etc. So apart from never feeling comfortable about inviting people round, we had also become used to tip-toeing around the house.
The relief of being able to cook pancakes at 2am, just because I fancy some is just….ahhhhh
I think the symbolic act of booking the locksmith was the clincher for my resolve, having the support of people I know only care about my well-being, and taking advice from anyone and everyone, both official and un-official. With all the overwhelming evidence, placed before my eyes, If I had failed to act at this time, I think I would never have got him to leave.
One of my first acts was to put my Campervan (see other page) onto the drive.
I went away for the first time that weekend…it was lovely.
Sara's Narcissus and Other Stories 