I read a story on Reddit about a woman (37F) who got caught up in some family drama involving her husband’s uncle (66M) and his plans to ask out a much younger woman (28F). Here’s what happened:
The woman, her husband (37M), and his uncle Pete all live together in a rented house to save on costs. Pete, a long-haul trucker, is usually on the road, but due to a back injury, he’s been home more and has started visiting the local bank frequently. A few weeks ago, Pete mentioned to her husband that he was interested in a woman at the bank. Recently, Pete brought it up again during a visit to her husband’s dad’s house.
While her husband and father-in-law were out running an errand, Pete told her and her mother-in-law about the woman. He shared details, including the fact that she owns a snake and frequently talks to him. Curious, the storyteller asked how old the woman was. When Pete revealed she was 28, the storyteller couldn’t hide her shock and asked what he was thinking. Pete became defensive, insisting that “age is just a number” and that it was normal “back in biblical times.”
The storyteller tried to explain that, in today’s society, such an age gap is generally seen as inappropriate. Her mother-in-law chimed in, laughing, and said Pete was old enough to be the woman’s grandfather. When her husband and father-in-law returned, the topic came up again. Her father-in-law defended Pete, saying, “age is just a number,” as long as both people are consenting adults.
On the way home, her husband told her they should let Pete make his own decisions, adding that the woman would likely say no anyway. He suggested dropping the matter to avoid unnecessary drama since they all live together. Now, she’s wondering if pointing out how creepy it is was the wrong move. She tried not to directly insult Pete but admits he got upset.
Even if she wasn’t waayyyyy too young for him, you don’t ask anyone out while they’re at work. The last thing she needs is to be put in this position by a creepy old man and still have to smile and be professional about it.”
“Wondering why this isn’t the top comment. Never ever ever ask anyone out while they’re working UNLESS THEY HAND YOU A NOTE WITH THEIR NUMBER ON IT. Ever. Ever. Ewwwwwww especially if you’re the old creepy guy who thinks that professional politeness is flirting or a connection.”
This story raises questions about boundaries, societal norms, and the dynamics of intergenerational relationships. What do you think was she right to voice her concerns, or should she have stayed out of it?