By complaining to all the different managers, AND going behind her back in the first place (the yes, very annoying coworker), LW has actually created a reputation as a troublemaker HERSELF. Of course I can see that it's the other person who's the problem. But sadly (not because LW is wrong, but because this is "the way it is"), LW needs to actually mind her own business more -- and stop complaining or saying ANYTHING to management. Believe me, I know how annoying it is when coworkers don't pull their share, and when they intrude on my space (auditory, etc.) I don't know that LW has the choice whether to "let her fail" (the slacker coworker) but if she does, YES by all means -- do NOT cover for her or fix her mistakes. The illusion that "the company" cares and will reward you for that or anything else is a sad fantasy nowadays. Management likes people who go along, do good work, and don't cause problems. Of any kind, even (from one's own point of view) being "helpful." Speaking as one who has found out the hard way, I've sadly discovered that trying to bring problems (or even solutions!) to the attention of management just causes (believe it or not) resentment of ME. And the situation, yes, LW is right, remains unchanged. Because frankly -- depressing as this is -- they don't care. They don't care if the "workers" are happy, fulfilled, comfortable, or even not being driven completely nuts. All they care about (and I'm not being cynical here just trying for clarity) is literally, the bottom line. And not being hassled themselves. I used to make suggestions about client contact, more efficient procedures, even safety (!) politely, carefully, thoughtfully. Management would either offhandedly or abruptly dismiss every single suggestion. Then after 7 years in a comfortable, reasonably okay position guess what -- I was "promoted" to assisting a completely crazy, demanding boss because I was "smart" and "efficient" and (the only real point), she requested me. So that was it, period. No one asked if I wanted this so-called "promotion" -- it was a done deal (which they got around to telling me exactly 24 hours before the change was made). No raise, new hours, totally different work, etc. Never mind what I wanted (or had contributed, with accurate, excellent, timely work, all these years). So my point is, LW, hang in there, yes, Cary's suggestions are all good ones and please, dear LW, stop complaining!! It only makes YOU look bad. You are not wrong (!!) but they do not care. As Cary says, if you do your best to work around this woman, and definitely don't cover for her, she will sink of her own weight. Try to ignore her (yes I know it's hard) and sadly, since management doesn't care about her abuses, frankly you don't need to either. Try to get your own work done as best you can and fill the rest of your time with the richness it can offer you -- your child (!), the fun to be found in the city or town where you live, nature's beauty, a nice meal, exercise, the rewards of a clean house and/or good book, absorbing show on TV, friendships (outside work especially!) and if you don't have enough of all of this, try to cultivate these kinds of things as well. You do have flexibility (which is great!!) so as Cary says, use it to enrich your day -- and you have your weekends(!!) try to fill them doing fun things -- and do as much "good stuff" for yourself as you can. Don't overindulge, that will make you feel worse!! But give yourself simple, rewarding good moments to help you through -- even just a walk around the block!! And good luck, sincerely.

In the words of my brilliant and perceptive friend Claudia, a bar manager in New Orleans, "Any man who don't pay half the rent and take out the garbage can kiss my a**."

No, maybe it doesn't (maybe it does) have to be "the piece of paper," but we know when it's fair and it isn't. LW is commendable for giving the guy time and space to heal. At a point, and it sounds like she's there, she needs to give herself the same compassion and respect and it sounds like she is doing that -- by questioning, and allowing herself to question, the situation.

I agree Cary's comments about Carribbean culture seem a little off the wall to me but I see where he's going -- "the" rules (if he doesn't marry you, obviously he doesn't care) are not always true and don't always apply to every situation. But if you're feeling used -- and you are, like LW, a compassionate and aware person -- you may well be. As far as the "limited choices" I agree with other writers, don't let that stop you!!! You deserve to find real, respectful love and I hope you know in your deepest heart that you do. And I hope you find it, whether with this guy or another. Good luck!!