87. We Got Engaged at Uni Then Found Out We're Cousins

So our first submission comes from our Reddit, OP Said Pod, and it goes like this: "Hi, ladies.

I've been watching your podcast recently.

I first found you on TikTok, and now I'm a big fan across all your platforms.

Aw.

Listening to your episodes made me want to finally share my story.

I really need honest opinions because I feel confused, overwhelmed, and honestly, a bit numb.

I'm a 22-year-old woman, and I've been in an on-and-off relationship with my boyfriend, 26 male, for about five years.

Before we started dating, I was seeing someone else, but I already had feelings for him, so when he asked me out, I ended my previous relationship immediately-

[laughs]

... and was completely honest with him.

A few months into our relationship, I found out through one of his friends that he was involved with another girl.

I was young and didn't know how to confront him, so I stayed quiet.

Not long after, I discovered another situation with a different girl.

That was when I tried to leave.

I told him I wasn't interested anymore, and he simply said, 'Okay,' without asking why.

That should've been my sign, but I still didn't fully walk away.

Months later, he came back, and I gave him another chance.

During one visit, another girl called him, and he answered right in front of me, even putting the call on speaker.

I felt extremely disrespected, but I still stayed.

Over the years, there were multiple instances of cheating that I either ignored or forgave.

Then things started to change.

After I finished school, I moved to the same city where he lives, which is also where my parents are.

I was trying to build my life, looking for a job, and struggling mentally.

During that time, he supported me emotionally and financially.

I felt safe and started to believe that what we had was real.