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Friendship Canceled As Child-Free Woman Is Left Holding Bestie’s Kid After She Dumps Him And Flees
Stressed babysitter on phone with worried expression while a child lies in crib in the background.

Friendship Canceled As Child-Free Woman Is Left Holding Bestie’s Kid After She Dumps Him And Flees

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Being a single parent is a difficult job, and one that folks don’t really get breaks from, which is why it can often feel exhausting. That’s also the reason they might sometimes reach out to friends and family for babysitting help and be a bit demanding when they do.

This is what happened to one woman who told her friend that she couldn’t look after her baby, but got stuck with the kid anyway when the mom just drove off. The woman couldn’t believe the audacity of her friend, and it caused huge cracks in their relationship.

More info: Mumsnet

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    When people take advantage of their loved ones for their own personal gain, it often shows their true colors

    Image credits: Alena Darmel / Pexels (not the actual photo)

    The poster shared that her friend of ten years, Claire, has four kids, and got left by her husband, because of her last accidental pregnancy that he couldn’t handle

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    Image credits: freepik / Freepik (not the actual photo)

    Claire found it tough to handle being a single mom and kept asking the poster for babysitting help 

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    Image credits: photoroyalty / Freepik (not the actual photo)

    One day, Claire asked her friend to look after her baby, as she had time off, and she kept pushing even though the poster had a spa appointment

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    Image credits: freepik / Freepik (not the actual photo)

    Despite the poster’s refusal, Claire just came over, left her baby at her home, and drove off without saying a word

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    Image credits: Doja

    The poster texted Claire, saying she’ll call the police if she doesn’t come back soon, and she debated dropping the baby off at Claire’s sister’s or ex-husband’s home

    As the OP had shared, her friend seemed to want many children even though her husband was not on the same page. After they had two kids, he decided he wanted to be done increasing their family, but that’s when she accidentally had the third. Even though he did his best to get on board, it all became too much for him when she had a fourth child. 

    In situations like this, where a couple can’t seem to agree about growing their family, experts explain that it’s important for them to have multiple discussions on the matter or seek professional help. Eventually, both people need to be on the same page about how many kids they want to have, or else one person might end up being resentful.

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    That’s exactly what happened to Claire’s husband, and she was then forced to be a single mom. That’s why she kept asking the poster for help with childcare, even though the childfree woman wanted to have her alone time. She did her best to help out, but also tried to set boundaries with her friend.

    It can be difficult to say no to being a babysitter, especially if you know that your loved one is struggling with parenting responsibilities. Professionals state that the best way to deal with this is by setting limits on how much help you’ll be willing to give, and not to waver on that as much as possible.

    Image credits: seventyfour / Freepik (not the actual photo)

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    Since the poster was off from work for the week, she had set up many activities and restful moments to enjoy. She had also booked a hairdresser appointment, a spa session, and a pass to use at the gym and pool. That’s why she felt annoyed when Claire reached out just then for babysitting help.

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    Even though the OP kept saying no to her friend, Claire kept pushing and manipulating her to give in. Eventually, she showed up at the poster’s house, left her baby there, and then drove off without saying a single thing. This obviously shocked the OP, who couldn’t believe her friend would do such a thing.

    It can feel difficult to stand up to a manipulative friend who does things like this, but it’s better than dealing with their toxic behavior for too long. Although it might be painful to set boundaries with them, it’s better not to tolerate their actions and to set stern consequences for any lines they cross.

    That’s why the woman texted Claire to tell her that she would call the police if she didn’t come back soon to pick up her son. The OP also decided to drop the child off at a known contact of Claire so that she didn’t have to babysit anymore and could actually enjoy the activities she had planned for her day.

    What do you think about the single mom’s tactics, and how would you have dealt with them? Do share your honest thoughts in the comments below.

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    Most people advised the poster to end her toxic friendship and to call the police on Claire

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    Poll Question

    Total votes ·

    Thanks! Check out the results:

    Total votes ·
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    Beverly Noronha

    Beverly Noronha

    Writer, BoredPanda staff

    Read more »

    You can call me Bev! I'm a world-class reader, a quirky writer, and a gardener who paints. If you’re looking for information about tattoos, Bulbasaur, and books, then I'm the NPC you must approach.

    Read less »
    Beverly Noronha

    Beverly Noronha

    Writer, BoredPanda staff

    You can call me Bev! I'm a world-class reader, a quirky writer, and a gardener who paints. If you’re looking for information about tattoos, Bulbasaur, and books, then I'm the NPC you must approach.

    Monika Pašukonytė

    Monika Pašukonytė

    Author, BoredPanda staff

    Read more »

    I am a visual editor here. In my free time I enjoy the vibrant worlds of art galleries, exhibitions, and soulful concerts. Yet, amidst life's hustle and bustle, I find solace in nature's embrace, cherishing tranquil moments with beloved friends. Deep within, I hold a dream close - to embark on a global journey in an RV, accompanied by my faithful canine companion. Together, we'll wander through diverse cultures, weaving precious memories under the starry night sky, fulfilling the wanderlust that stirs my soul.

    Read less »

    Monika Pašukonytė

    Monika Pašukonytė

    Author, BoredPanda staff

    I am a visual editor here. In my free time I enjoy the vibrant worlds of art galleries, exhibitions, and soulful concerts. Yet, amidst life's hustle and bustle, I find solace in nature's embrace, cherishing tranquil moments with beloved friends. Deep within, I hold a dream close - to embark on a global journey in an RV, accompanied by my faithful canine companion. Together, we'll wander through diverse cultures, weaving precious memories under the starry night sky, fulfilling the wanderlust that stirs my soul.

    What do you think ?
    Suzie
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Why is it unfair to drop the kid off with his dad? That's his kid whether he likes it or not and he's still responsible for him.

    Doodles1983
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Exactly. He didn't want the last two. But still wanted to get his end away. FAAFO. Literally. The fact he doesn't see the younger two (or likely support them) is disgusting. I'd be calling the cops (who will involve ss anyway) to say this kid was abandoned to my care without my consent. His dad works here... Mum is struggling. Should ensure child safety, potential financial, if not custodial support, and stop Claire asking for further "favours". Multi win.

    Load More Replies...
    PeakyBlinder
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Have police or ss Pick him up and be done with it

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    Isobel Davies
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    100% call the police or take him to the station, this mother it not fit a a mother or friend ! and i have a son

    Paul C
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Don't take a child anywhere in that circumstance, or you could be accused of kidnapping. If a mother will run off and dump her child with someone who has said no, there is no telling what might happen once the authorities are involved. Just call the police to where you are. Much safer. Sadly, these days we have to think of the unthinkable, just to protect ourselves.

    Load More Replies...
    sweet emotion
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And once the current mess is straightened out, NEVER answer the door or Claire's calls again.

    Granny's Thoughts
    Community Member
    Premium
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The missing mom said she cannot cope. That right there is an invitation for you to "help" her the only way you really can - by calling police or social services. She needs help and this will help in the long run. You are not a free babysitter.

    Jane Doe
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This. She needs more help than her "village" is able to give. She needs to get real help for herself and her children. If that means her husband no longer gets a free pass to ignore two of his children, well he can pay for sitters. If that means she has to get a better job and pay for daycare or get therapy or do whatever it is she isn't doing that is putting her in this place she needs to do that. Band-aiding the situation by dumping the kids on anyone and everyone is not the way.

    Load More Replies...
    Jay Walsh
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Honestly, I'd just call/text the grandparents and sister back as you're heading out the door.."Taking Barry to the police station, please let Claire know if she contacts you" Dollars to Donuts one of them would call back and come get the kid. Also, while you're friend clearly needs help, you need to cut ties, you're not her spouse.

    Lee Gilliland
    Community Member
    Premium
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Nope, that means she'll turn around and do it again.

    Load More Replies...
    Laura Gillette
    Community Member
    4 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If men don't want children, or more children, they need to take responsibility and either: a. wear a c0ndom, even if she's on birth control (especially if he knows she wants another kid), or b. refuse to ej@culate inside her. If she insists on s3xy time, he can satisfy her without using his p3nis. Women do not need semen inside them to achieve 0rgasm. If he wants his needs met and she refuses to satisfy him using methods other than unprotected PIV s3x, he can go m@sturbate. Seriously. "He didn't want more kids." Then why did you finish in her vag, dude? Baby needs your 0rgasm to exist, not hers. (Sorry if my comment is... erm... explicit.)

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Call the police. Call Child Protective Services. Call your lawyer about getting a restraining order on this "mother".

    BK BigFish
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    She should contact social services - clearly, her "friend" is having trouble coping with four children and no husband. She could use the help.

    Kate Johnson
    Community Member
    Premium
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Absolutely would call the police and CPS. This woman sound too dim to parent.

    Lee Gilliland
    Community Member
    Premium
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Call police and have him picked up as abandoned. This is not a friend.

    Lee Gilliland
    Community Member
    Premium
    4 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have had a cousin do this to me. I called the cops, at that point I was a single mom myself living on minimum wage with no child support and was not about to make myself or my child hungry because she couldn't find a better fix. Sue me.

    Jane Doe
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Your cousin needed a wakeup call. If she were really in distress, then she can ask for help getting resources, money, therapy, daycare. "I need a break so I'm leaving the kid with you until I want to be a parent again," is something else entirely.

    Load More Replies...
    Suzy Sims
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Police will take to long. Take the kiddo to Daddy. he has a legal obligations and you do not. Walk in set the child down, walk out. Done. Never speak to that woman again. Never open your door to her again. She is NOT your friend.

    Suzie
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Why is it unfair to drop the kid off with his dad? That's his kid whether he likes it or not and he's still responsible for him.

    Doodles1983
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Exactly. He didn't want the last two. But still wanted to get his end away. FAAFO. Literally. The fact he doesn't see the younger two (or likely support them) is disgusting. I'd be calling the cops (who will involve ss anyway) to say this kid was abandoned to my care without my consent. His dad works here... Mum is struggling. Should ensure child safety, potential financial, if not custodial support, and stop Claire asking for further "favours". Multi win.

    Load More Replies...
    PeakyBlinder
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Have police or ss Pick him up and be done with it

    ADVERTISEMENT
    Isobel Davies
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    100% call the police or take him to the station, this mother it not fit a a mother or friend ! and i have a son

    Paul C
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Don't take a child anywhere in that circumstance, or you could be accused of kidnapping. If a mother will run off and dump her child with someone who has said no, there is no telling what might happen once the authorities are involved. Just call the police to where you are. Much safer. Sadly, these days we have to think of the unthinkable, just to protect ourselves.

    Load More Replies...
    sweet emotion
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And once the current mess is straightened out, NEVER answer the door or Claire's calls again.

    Granny's Thoughts
    Community Member
    Premium
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The missing mom said she cannot cope. That right there is an invitation for you to "help" her the only way you really can - by calling police or social services. She needs help and this will help in the long run. You are not a free babysitter.

    Jane Doe
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This. She needs more help than her "village" is able to give. She needs to get real help for herself and her children. If that means her husband no longer gets a free pass to ignore two of his children, well he can pay for sitters. If that means she has to get a better job and pay for daycare or get therapy or do whatever it is she isn't doing that is putting her in this place she needs to do that. Band-aiding the situation by dumping the kids on anyone and everyone is not the way.

    Load More Replies...
    Jay Walsh
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Honestly, I'd just call/text the grandparents and sister back as you're heading out the door.."Taking Barry to the police station, please let Claire know if she contacts you" Dollars to Donuts one of them would call back and come get the kid. Also, while you're friend clearly needs help, you need to cut ties, you're not her spouse.

    Lee Gilliland
    Community Member
    Premium
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Nope, that means she'll turn around and do it again.

    Load More Replies...
    Laura Gillette
    Community Member
    4 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If men don't want children, or more children, they need to take responsibility and either: a. wear a c0ndom, even if she's on birth control (especially if he knows she wants another kid), or b. refuse to ej@culate inside her. If she insists on s3xy time, he can satisfy her without using his p3nis. Women do not need semen inside them to achieve 0rgasm. If he wants his needs met and she refuses to satisfy him using methods other than unprotected PIV s3x, he can go m@sturbate. Seriously. "He didn't want more kids." Then why did you finish in her vag, dude? Baby needs your 0rgasm to exist, not hers. (Sorry if my comment is... erm... explicit.)

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Call the police. Call Child Protective Services. Call your lawyer about getting a restraining order on this "mother".

    BK BigFish
    Community Member
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    She should contact social services - clearly, her "friend" is having trouble coping with four children and no husband. She could use the help.

    Kate Johnson
    Community Member
    Premium
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Absolutely would call the police and CPS. This woman sound too dim to parent.

    Lee Gilliland
    Community Member
    Premium
    5 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Call police and have him picked up as abandoned. This is not a friend.

    Lee Gilliland
    Community Member
    Premium
    4 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have had a cousin do this to me. I called the cops, at that point I was a single mom myself living on minimum wage with no child support and was not about to make myself or my child hungry because she couldn't find a better fix. Sue me.

    Jane Doe
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Your cousin needed a wakeup call. If she were really in distress, then she can ask for help getting resources, money, therapy, daycare. "I need a break so I'm leaving the kid with you until I want to be a parent again," is something else entirely.

    Load More Replies...
    Suzy Sims
    Community Member
    3 days ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Police will take to long. Take the kiddo to Daddy. he has a legal obligations and you do not. Walk in set the child down, walk out. Done. Never speak to that woman again. Never open your door to her again. She is NOT your friend.

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