I was allowed to choose which parent I wanted to live with. Two years later, I regretted my decision.
I always thought my dad loved me more than my mum. He spoiled me; she told me off. He was the peacemaker, while she was quicker to argue. So when my parents announced their divorce, part of me was relieved. At thirteen, I didnt fancy living with my mum, and besides, I figured Dadbeing the breadwinnercould take better care of me. They asked for my opinion. Mum hoped Id pick her, but she wasnt the least bit surprised when I chose Dad.
A year after we moved out, Dad found a new girlfriend. She was about the same age as my mum, and he was smitten. She was nice enough to me, but without the warmth or affection Id had from Mum. When she and Dad had a baby together, it was like they forgot I existed. Sometimes theyd go off on little tripsjust the three of themwithout a second thought about inviting me. Or theyd have fancy dinners when I wasnt around. My room now had a crib in it, and I hadnt had a proper nights sleep since the baby arrivedcrying at all hours, my stepmum flicking the light on for midnight feeds.
Dad didnt seem to care how it affected my mood or my schoolwork. He didnt even bat an eyelid when I started staying out late with friends. Eventually, I realised this couldnt go on. I wanted to go to uni, I had plansand if I kept sleeping badly, Id never manage it. So, swallowing my pride, I rang Mum.
“Can I come over?” I asked, not daring to hope. I rarely called, let alone visited.
“Of course, love. Stay as long as you like. The babys driving you mad, isnt she?”
I felt sorry for Mum. Dad had his new family and his new life, while she was still on her own.
I asked Dad if I could move in with Mum for a while, and he agreed straight away. He promised to send money, but he never called. In a way, it was easier for everyone. Maybe because Im older now, but Mum and I get on like mates. She looks after me, supports mewhereas Dad just treats me like Im already grown up.
Now, she even makes me dinner after work. If I could turn back time, Id probably choose to stay with her. But then again, maybe Id have regretted that just as much, always wondering if the grass was greener on the other side.
