For twelve years, I believed my marriage was solid—a quiet, dependable love built on trust. Ethan and I had two kids, movie nights, and memories that felt like forever. I thought I knew the man I married.
Planning a cozy Christmas cabin trip, I suggested it to Ethan after dinner. His response was quick: “We can’t afford it.” Disappointed but understanding, I moved on—until I found a \$3,000 charge for “Tranquility Luxe Spa” on our shared credit card, scheduled for that Saturday.
When I asked Ethan casually about his plans, he claimed he had to work. But I already knew. The late nights, the secretive texts from Rachel—his so-called “work wife”—suddenly made sense.
The next day, I sent the kids out with a sitter and drove to the spa. I told the receptionist I wanted to surprise Ethan and Rachel with an extra massage. She smiled and added it to their booking.