In the ever-evolving dynamics of modern relationships, a pressing question emerges among the discussions of gender roles and work-life balance: Are there still men who desire their partners to stay at home? This query not only taps into the deep layers of personal preference and societal expectations but also mirrors a longing for a seemingly bygone era where roles were more distinct and arguably simpler.

I encountered such a preference firsthand through a friend's experience. Her partner, now her husband, once expressed a belief that seems increasingly rare in today's society. He stated that his woman would never work, advocating that a woman is crafted for happiness, not to toil away in professional settings.

Enviously, I look upon her situation. In my personal encounters, I've found men far removed from this ideal, characterized more by their parsimony than their provision. Discussions about my unhappiness at work were met with retorts loaded with financial pragmatism rather than empathy: "Who will work for you? Who will pay your rent? Get to work."

For a time, I lived with a partner who insisted on splitting everything, a situation that left me perpetually contemplating my misfortune in love. This experience has led to a resolute idea that my future must involve either a marriage with a man who desires a traditional homemaker wife or a life of solitude.

Reflecting on my seven-year streak of juggling two jobs, I've always envied women who could afford the luxury of having a 'real man'—not necessarily a millionaire but someone capable of supporting a family. This aspiration isn't just about financial security but also about fulfilling a desire for traditional roles within the home.

As society strides forward, the discussion around gender roles and expectations remains complex and multifaceted. The longing for traditional setups, as expressed through personal anecdotes, highlights a diverse spectrum of desires and expectations within modern relationships.