I met a neighbour this afternoon. Though we never really had a conversation, we exchanged polite greetings whenever we meet. Today, somehow, she seemed chatty. So I stayed and talked to her.

I was a bit surprised at first when she started to tell me about her marital problems. Although we are neighbours, we are also practically strangers. But later, as the story went on, I found it interesting and didn't want her to stop.

She : He spat on my face.
Me : What? Really??

Silence. I pressed my lips when I saw the tears forming in her eyes.

Me : I'm so sorry.
She : That was the last straw.

At this point, I didn't want to look as if I'm nosey, so I pretended to be distracted with my boy jumping about. I felt that it was too personal for her to tell me more. But she continued anyhow.

She : He has been abusing me mentally and physically for the past 18 years. I was young when we got married. I haven't been working eversince. We agreed that I am to stay at home to care for our 2 children. All these years, I've taken every abuse because I am a patient person. Once, when he got so violent, I did a report and got a Protection Order. But the spat was the last I can take.

She smiled. Maybe a part of carrying the burden has been released.

She : Luckily, all these years, I saved some money he gave for home expenses. I am now engaging a lawyer to do the proceedings. Still, my husband told his lawyer that whatever savings I have are his. The scumbag idiot.

We talked for a while more. But what she told me is really an eye-opener. I should start my own savings, apart from the joint account with the husband. Not that I hope something bad will happen. But one never knows...