Sandra thought marriage would bring its fair share of small challenges—maybe the occasional disagreement over dinner plans or who should do the laundry. But just a week after saying “I do,” she found herself staring at her new husband, Matt, in disbelief.
He calmly told her that her entire salary would now be directed to his mother, who would manage it for her. “She’ll teach you how to spend it properly,” he said, as if they were discussing groceries. It wasn’t a joke—and Sandra knew immediately this was not something she could accept.
Matt and Sandra had been together for three years before tying the knot. He had always come across as supportive, respectful, and admired her independence. Sandra, a successful graphic designer, had worked hard to build a life she was proud of. She had every reason to believe Matt valued that too—until now.
It was a quiet evening at home when the topic of finances came up. Sandra expected a conversation about joint accounts or shared budgeting. Instead, Matt laid out a surprising and rigid system—half of her income would go to him, a portion to the household, and the rest to gifts for extended family. All of it would be overseen by his mother, Linda, who he referred to as a financial expert.
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