Life frequently presents us with challenging situations that test our tolerance, endurance, and sense of fairness. Co-parenting, in particular, requires a delicate balance, with both parents equally responsible for their child’s well-being. But what happens when one parent prioritizes their own needs, leaving the other to shoulder the entire burden?

This is a common battle for single parents. Recently, a reader shared her experience, outlining how she handled an unexpected and brazen request from her ex-husband.

Dear, Ex-husband casually asked to forgo three months of child support in order to “save for a summer trip” with his wife and their two children. I didn’t argue. On the next visiting day, I did not drop off our daughter. Instead, I left some luggage by his door. As he eagerly unzipped it, his face turned white as he saw a pile of clothes and school supplies. He blinked and asked, “What’s this?”

I smiled. “Oh, since you want to take a break from financially supporting our child, I figured I’d help. So, for the next 16 weeks, he will live with you. His wife appeared at the doorway, frowning. “What?” I explained, “It’s simple.” Since you are taking a break from financially supporting our child, I thought it would be appropriate for me to take one as well. You will be responsible for full-time parenting for the next 16 weeks. You know–so I can focus on my own savings.

Do not fear, I have packed enough clothes and school supplies for the first two weeks. Following that, I am confident you will be able to figure things out.” He looked absolutely terrified and yelled, “Wait, hold on! We never consented to this!” I inclined my head, appearing to seem innocent. “Oh? I assumed you’d be fine with it. I mean, it’s just three months. “What’s the big deal?”

I paused to ponder my words before administering the final blow. “Oh, and one more thing: our kid did not want to visit Daddy today. She indicated she would prefer to spend the weekend with me. So, I’ll send her off on Monday morning, and you’ll have her for the entire twelve weeks. Enjoy!” My ex and his wife are constantly phoning and texting me, but I am not replying. I’m standing my ground.

If he chose to put his new family over our daughter, he will have to face the consequences. This decision was not my alone; he made it when he requested to be excused from his duties. Am I mistaken about this?