His Excessive Gym Time Forces His Girlfriend to Serve an Ultimatum, But His Decision Is Not What She Expects.

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Caught in a clash between personal fitness goals and his girlfriend’s desire for more family time, the Original Poster (OP) finds himself in a situation that could risk his relationship. Amid his emotional turmoil, a surprise visit from his girlfriend’s daughter, the return of her ex, and a personal health scare intensify the drama. As the story unfolds, a climactic compromise is reached, leaving readers questioning if the resolution can withstand the undercurrents of their complicated relationship.

Introduction to a Blossoming Relationship

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OP, a 32-year-old man, begins dating a lovely 29-year-old woman with an endearing 4-year-old daughter from a previous relationship. As the relationship flourishes, OP starts spending more and more time at his girlfriend’s place, nearly moving in with her and her daughter.

Unconventional Work Hours

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OP’s profession demands an unusual work schedule from 4:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. After his 10-hour shift, he usually is in bed by 4:00 a.m., only to wake up around noon. Despite the demanding hours, he enjoys the perk of having more days off than most workers.

A Fitness Enthusiast’s Routine

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On his days off, OP consistently devotes time to the gym, spending about two hours on a typical visit. Fitness is not only his passion but also a professional obligation, keeping him healthy and feeling good. His dedication doesn’t waver even amidst his tightly packed schedule.

Tensions Surface

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Following OP’s unofficial move into his girlfriend’s house, issues begin to crop up around his gym routine. Whenever he tries to leave for the gym, his girlfriend accuses him of being selfish, expressing that her daughter is confused and saddened by his frequent departures.

A Major Confrontation

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The disagreement escalates when OP attempts to explain his position, stating that he must prioritize his workout routine while also making time for her and her daughter. His girlfriend retorts, questioning whether he values the gym more than her and her daughter.

The Ultimatum

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With emotions running high, OP’s girlfriend poses a question that feels like an ultimatum. She asks him to choose between the gym and his place in their family. This challenges OP’s ability to balance his personal needs with those of his evolving family life.

A Choice Made

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In response to what he perceives as an unfair choice, OP opts for the gym, arguing that his girlfriend should make room for his important commitments. This unexpected decision leaves the girlfriend in shock. OP exits, leaving behind an air of uncertainty.

Solitude and Reflection

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OP contemplates the potential end of his relationship. Although he acknowledges his girlfriend’s suggestion was to renegotiate his schedule rather than abandon the gym, he resisted, fearing it would hinder his personal goals. The weight of his decision begins to sink in.

The Ex Returns

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OP learns that his girlfriend’s ex, the little girl’s father, has returned to town and wants to be more involved in his daughter’s life. The ex-boyfriend’s presence brings an additional layer of complexity and potential threat to OP’s relationship with his girlfriend and her daughter.

Friends’ Opinions

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OP’s friends chime in, giving mixed advice about the situation. Some sympathize with his need for personal time, while others argue that his commitment to his girlfriend and her daughter should come first. This array of conflicting perspectives leaves OP even more confused.

A Candid Conversation

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OP decides to have an open conversation with his girlfriend. He expresses his fears, hopes, and pressure when asked to choose. The discussion provides a much-needed platform for the couple to voice their concerns.

A Pleading Daughter

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Amid their discussion, the little girl interrupts, pleading with OP not to leave them because she sees him as her father. This surprising interruption provides a moving revelation of the bond that has developed between OP and the child.

The Ex Makes a Move

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News reaches OP that his girlfriend’s ex has expressed interest in rekindling their relationship. This complicates matters further, pressuring OP to decide if he wants to fight for his place in their lives or step aside.

Girlfriend’s Stand

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When confronted by OP, his girlfriend assures him that she has no intentions of getting back with her ex. However, she emphasizes the importance of the ex being present in their daughter’s life.

Was The Boyfriend’s Behavior Appropriate?

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Unsure if he should compromise his gym schedule to make his girlfriend happy, OP posts his story online for feedback and advice. The readers in the community forum had a lot of mixed views on the matter. Here are some of their responses:

Forum Responds

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One reader said, “She wants to spend time with you. I can see why saying the gym is my priority would be hurtful to her. You can have multiple priorities. You should also be able to compromise and find time to spend with your partner.”

Another Commenter Thinks

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Another responder wrote, “Your goals don’t seem to be compatible with hers, so in my opinion, the best thing for both of you would be to be split up so she can make space for a man who is available to be a partner and father to her daughter.”

A Third View on The Story

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A different person stated, “You had a routine this entire time before them, and she wants you to change it because they don’t see enough of you? I assume you made it the way you do because it works best around your schedule. She sounds controlling.”

A Final Perspective on the Matter

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Another reader commented, “She knew your routine before letting you stay consistently. She pressed the issue in a very unfair way and expected a good response. You explained that you’d have more time the next day and could spend some time with them before your shift.”