By Linda C J Turner, Therapist & Advocate

You know the old saying, “Be careful what you wish for — you just might get it?” Well, sometimes, it comes with complications you never ordered.

So here I am. Two fantastic offers on the house. Presented clearly, professionally… and yet, radio silence from the other party’s solicitor. No response. No movement. No sense of urgency. Just… silence.

Which begs the question: does he actually want to sell? Or is something else going on behind the scenes?

When you’ve lived with manipulation, secrecy, and unpredictability, that silence is never just silence. It rings louder than any shouting match. It gets your mind spinning. And let’s be honest — the possibilities aren’t exactly comforting…

Let’s take a look at what might be happening behind those silent walls:

🤔 The “Maybe” List:

• Maybe he doesn’t want to sell at all.
• Maybe he’s having second thoughts — not about the house, but about control.
• Maybe he’s thinking of moving his girlfriend in.
• Maybe he’s cooking up a different plan altogether.
• Maybe his adult children are circling — and thinking of claiming a stake.
• Maybe he wants to move back in himself and make good on old threats to “force me out” if I ever dared leave him.
• Maybe… maybe this is his final move in a long game of power plays.

💡 A Psychological Perspective:

When someone thrives on control, dragging their feet can be a form of passive aggression. It’s not just indecision — it’s domination in disguise. Psychologically speaking, this behavior taps into the manipulator’s favourite tools: uncertainty, delay, and doubt. These tactics keep others on edge, guessing, and emotionally off balance.

🧠 Neuroscience Knows:

Uncertainty is one of the most stressful states for the human brain. It activates the amygdala — the brain’s fear center — and triggers a stress response. It’s no wonder we find ourselves spiraling with “maybes” and sleepless nights when answers are withheld. It’s not just annoying — it’s neurological.

🎭 And the Drama of Silence?

Sometimes, silence is a script. One that’s been rehearsed a thousand times in toxic dynamics. It says:

• “I’m still in charge.”
• “I’ll let you know when I feel like it.”
• “You don’t get to move on — not until I say so.”

But here’s the truth: you’ve already moved on. Mentally, emotionally, spiritually. And silence? It doesn’t have power over someone who’s reclaimed their voice.

⚖️ So, What Now?

Let the silence speak — but don’t let it sink you. Let the offers stay on the table — but keep your eyes on your own path. And above all?

Keep manifesting your freedom, your peace, your next chapter. Not their delays. Not their drama. Not their control.

Because yes, be careful what you wish for — especially when you’re playing games with someone who’s already found their truth and isn’t afraid to speak it anymore.

— Linda C J Turner

Trauma Therapist | Neuroscience & Emotional Intelligence Practitioner | Advocate for Women’s Empowerment