The moment I saw Terry, I thought he was the whole package. He was 6ft, fit, muscular, well-dressed. I’d been internet dating and had met a few dreadful men. ‘This is more like it,’ I thought. It was Easter 2013. I was 56 and had been single for 23 years, since my divorce. I’d raised two children, worked as a school receptionist for 25 years and owned my home. I’d had relationships, but never brought anyone home as the kids came first. Now they were grown and gone, it felt like my time.
I fell for Terry in a big way. He was nine years younger, divorced and we seemed well matched. We both loved walking and enjoyed the same music. Terry told me he liked ‘women who dress like women’ – which wasn’t a problem, that’s my style anyway. He worked from home in IT support, earned a good salary and was generous. He’d book meals and theatre tickets and never asked me to pay.
At first, Terry was wonderful with my family, too. My son and his family were living in a flat which wasn’t ideal, so Terry suggested they have his place – a semi-detached house with a garden – for a low rent, and he’d move in with me. It seemed kind, but it moved things forward very fast and gave him a hold over me. I knew if things broke down between us, my son and his family would be turfed out.
This story is from the January 20, 2020 edition of WOMAN - UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the January 20, 2020 edition of WOMAN - UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
What's their SECRET?
Woman investigates how these stars are managing to age backwards
I've cried BUCKETS
Linda Robson on rehab, binge-drinking and her marriage breakdown
Phil and Steph back together!
They separated four years ago when he came out as gay live on This Morning.
The ROYAL INSIDER
PRINCE WILLIAM PUTS FAMILY FIRST
My husband's BATTLE TO BE A DAD
With a rare condition, could Jenna Greenaway's partner father children?
The dark side of PARADISE
Just how safe are our children when they decide to go travelling? Woman investigates
I'm still in SURVIVAL MODE
Kate Garraway on debt, the care system and why working 'really helps' her grief
Let's have an ADVENTURE!
Four women share the thrills of breaking out of their comfort zone
A short BREAK
It was just a few days away, but a chance encounter threw Kathy into turmoil
Dinner for ONE
Tasty ideas for solo dining that will leave you feeling satisfied