Summary
Highlights
Cindy shares her story of meeting a French man, Benito, in 2022 during a vacation in France with her daughter. He appeared charming and romantic, a Spanish teacher, and quickly expressed interest, promising a future for Cindy and her daughter.
Their relationship continued long-distance while Cindy was in Colombia. Benito was affectionate and made grand promises, even introducing Cindy as his future wife to his students. However, Cindy's mother expressed distrust, and Cindy noticed Benito interacting with other Latin women online, even a comment suggesting she was "another victim".
Cindy and her daughter traveled to France, paying for their own tickets, with Benito promising reimbursement and a future together. Within five days of their arrival, Benito's demeanor changed drastically. He refused to marry her, called her an opportunist, and demanded she leave his house, retracting all his promises. He even locked them in his remote house when he left.
Benito bought them tickets to Spain, not Colombia, and kept the money Cindy had spent on her initial travel. In Barcelona, after contacting a cousin who then refused to host them, Cindy and her daughter were left with only 10 euros. A kind Colombian man named Jorge helped them by providing food and 20 euros, and directed them to a shelter.
The shelter could only accommodate them for two days, and social services couldn't help without a valid address. Cindy met another Colombian woman, Anita, who also offered support and 50 euros, emphasizing the importance of staying strong. Despite receiving help from strangers, her own brother in Barcelona also refused assistance.
Following advice, Cindy returned to France, where a friend offered them temporary shelter. She is now seeking assistance to return to Colombia, facing difficulties due to immigration status and language barriers. Benito has threatened to report her for trying to reclaim her money.
Cindy shares her story as a warning to others about the dangers of idealizing relationships and migrating without proper precautions, especially with children. She regrets leaving her job in Colombia and is desperately trying to acquire funds for plane tickets to return home with her daughter.