Meh. my theory: Abusive men that like to smack women around like to couple up with bitches because they figure that if they are going to be hitting them a lot, they might as well deserve it.
And the women consider that proof that the guy loves them.
My first marriage hinted at this, except I’m not only not a hitter, but not a fighter. She was a real fighter. After 20 years of this and three daughters, she left. Good news for both of us:
I found a woman whos attitude about marriage can be hinted at here: She read and loves “The Submissive Wife”. We have so much mutual respect that we simply never fight. 23 years of marriage to my best friend and going stronger than ever!
And, according to my daughters, my ex found a guy that she fights with constantly.
So we’re all good, apparently.
I know your story well, lived some of that. I still have to talk to my ex about our son and she still loves to fight. I do not give her the satisfaction and every time I hang up the phone I have a huge smile.
I am glad that you are successful with marriage #2.
With mine, we argue sometimes, but we’re stuck with each other.
She’s a good woman, though.