Agony aunt tackles money obsession, domestic abuse fears
Agony aunt tackles money obsession and abuse fears

Daily Star agony aunt Jane O'Gorman addresses two pressing reader dilemmas: one involving a man whose girlfriend's behaviour shifted dramatically after learning of his inheritance, and another concerning a woman who suspects her friend is being abused by her husband.

Wealth and Relationship Concerns

A reader wrote to Jane explaining that he inherited a large sum from his late uncle, who was also his godfather. The inheritance came from a successful business sale. He kept this secret from his girlfriend, whom he started dating in January 2024. However, she accidentally saw bank statements on the kitchen counter a few weeks ago and was stunned by the totals.

After confessing that he never needs to work again, the reader noted an instant change in his girlfriend's attitude. She became more accommodating, their sex life improved, and she now rarely argues with him. To test her, he woke her at midnight to request online sex with a stranger, and she complied without complaint, even making him a milky drink afterward.

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The reader expressed concern that her behaviour might not be genuine, questioning whether she loves him or his money.

Jane's Response on Money and Trust

Jane criticized the reader for testing his girlfriend, calling it a cheap shot and humiliating. She questioned whether the statement incident was truly accidental or a way to show off. Jane advised that money is a powerful aphrodisiac and that his girlfriend's reaction is human. She urged him to stop playing games and have an honest conversation about her true feelings, warning that she cannot maintain a fake smile if she doesn't care for him. Jane emphasized that with wealth comes responsibility and maturity.

Domestic Abuse Alert

Another reader described becoming close to a mother at her son's school. The friend's husband is described as smarmy and condescending, and others have warned that he is physically abusive and controls finances. The reader noticed marks on her friend's face twice, which were explained as accidents. She asked whether she should get involved.

Jane advised that if abuse is suspected, the reader cannot stand by. She recommended telling the friend about the concerns and providing the National Domestic Abuse Helpline number (0808 2000 247) when it is safe to do so. She also urged encouraging the friend to call 999 in emergencies. Jane acknowledged that the friend might reject the help, but providing the number offers hope.

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