BBM
Oh, I definitely think he abused Lucas. Why else would he have not even bothered to ask where all of his bruises came from? He said on the NG podcast that he knew of one situation that had an explanation and the rest "he didn't know". He didn't know because he didn't care. Why else would he get so offended and defensive when people mentioned abuse? He thought EG was a great mom because she probably parented the same way he did... by smacking the kids around.
He also described his relationship with EG as "effortless". With all of the DV incidents, I have no idea what that even means. That it was easy to dodge when she swung an axe handle at him? And what kind of parent leaves their kid with someone who attacks THEM like that? One who doesn't care.
I respectfully disagree. I think...I reserve the right to change my mind (again).
I think about JO's description of JH. If he succumbed to chaos, it was over time.
I think he loved Lucas and looked forward to time off with him. I also think he held an antiquated view of family life -- he's the working man on the long, hard road and EG was the domestic goddess.
While I believe he may have physically disciplined Lucas on occasion, I don't believe it started until after EG was in the picture -- and by this, I mean swat/spank -- not paddling, whooping, or beating. He talked about how well-behaved Lucas was; he didn't seem like someone to hide, no frustration with behavior or attempts to blame Lucas.
When he flew off the handle with EG's son, was he already tense in a fight with EG? Was he defending Lucas or MH? Was he irritated at the hypocrisy that EG had full reign over his kids but he couldn't even correct them? None of these things are excuses, but a way to understand.
I think he believed EG was his after an abusive relationship and that they were trying to make a home-sweet-home for their 2 shared children & her 2 boys. He's not stupid. But he stayed with EG after DV -- that tells me she had him in her pocket.
I also think he had a great amount of pride. Pride means you handle your own business -- it's your business, and there's no tolerance for prying. I think he *thought* he had a handle on things -- we don't know the private conversations between him & EG or what he's told LE, but I am thinking he bought EG's line -- why would she lie to him about his child? It was her "job" to care for the children. In his mind, he may have followed simple reasoning -- he didn't see bruises on her boys or MH so... Lucas must just be clumsy. He could understand it because at one time he thought Lucas would have developmental problems. Or being a boy -- in that case, even better.
We know he & EG argued. But it was "effortless" because it was easy for him to visit & leave--no doubt EG showered him with love, food, & sex when he was home. Lucas was happy to see him and sad when he left -- everything fed his idea and image of being an appreciated, hard-working husband and father.
Think about it -- it's heartbreaking to be away from family that long -- but the benefit is that there is virtually little to no responsibility when coming home. It's all good times and love and catching up.