When I love a man, I stay away from his money. Love, to me, is enough—better than silver or gold. But I will be all over him. I’ll share his space, breathe the same air. We can’t, but I wish we could wear the same pants and walk together. I’m that intense.

When I don’t love a man, I say so from the start. But if you insist and stick around just to prove a point, I will spend your money. Everything becomes about money until you learn the truth and leave me alone.

I said no to Eric, but he insisted: “True love takes time.” He vowed to try harder until I said yes. When he called and I didn’t answer, he complained. I told him my phone was faulty. When he complained again, I said, “I warned you, but you ignored me. Didn’t you say you love me?”

He sent me money to fix it. Then more for a new one. I thanked him profusely. He replied, “All I want is a chance. Should I walk away and be kind to someone else?” I said, “I don’t trust men. You’re all like this until you get what you want. That’s why I prefer to be alone.”

Whenever we went out, I picked expensive places. I’d eat, then order takeout. Sometimes, I brought Gertrude along—she loves food. After paying for both of us, I’d still get takeout. One night, after a date, he frowned but stayed silent until we parted. At home, I asked what was wrong.

He grumbled about Gertrude eating everything on the menu. “Would she eat like that if I were her boyfriend?” I laughed. I knew I was pushing him away—and it worked. Slowly, he stopped pursuing me and vanished.

Months passed without a word. Then one day, he asked: “Why didn’t you love me after all I did?” I confessed, “When I love a man, he doesn’t have to prove anything. I wasn’t into you—but I liked you as a person.” I even apologized for Gertrude. (Honestly, that girl ate ridiculously that night.)

Now, our paths have crossed again. We see each other daily. He still wants me. And this time? I think I want him too. Maybe I know him better now. Maybe his persistence proves his feelings are genuine. But my conscience flashes a red light:

“If you let him in, he’ll take revenge. Remember what Gertrude did to his wallet? You’ll pay for it.”

I want to believe that’s not true. I’ve been to his place, and he’s made no move on me. When we talk about relationships, he says he’ll wait patiently. This time, we don’t go out. No Gertrude drama. I don’t ask for things; he doesn’t bring gifts. But that also bothers me—if he truly loved me, wouldn’t he show up with his hands full?

I Never Paid Fees Again Until I Completed School

I’ve been lonely for so long. I’ve rejected many men. I don’t want to make a mistake with him. So I’m careful.

To the men here: Would you really wait years just for revenge?

—Mawusi

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