For six years, I believed my marriage to Michael was unshakable. His long hours at a consulting firm often left me alone, but I trusted his dedication was for us and the life we were building together.
One Friday evening, we were curled up on our worn leather couch, sharing popcorn and watching a movie. His laptop sat on the coffee table when an email notification popped up.
“Dear Michael, we are delighted to invite you to our annual company party! This year’s theme is Black and Gold. You are welcome to bring +1 (your wife or partner).”
My heart leapt. After years of attending these events solo, Michael had finally been asked to bring me. I pictured the dress I’d wear and the excitement of meeting his colleagues.
“Oh, Michael! This is so exciting. I’d love to go with you,” I said.
His face darkened. He closed the laptop sharply. “Claire, trust me. You don’t want to go. These things are boring. Charts, numbers, endless speeches. I’ll nod to my boss and come home.”
The rejection stung. “But the invitation specifically said I could come. Don’t you want me there?”
“No. You’d be asleep in ten minutes,” he insisted.
I forced a smile, but unease crept in. Why wouldn’t he want me there?
All week, his stress grew, and Friday arrived with him dressed sharply in a tailored suit. He kissed my cheek and said, “Don’t wait up.”
I watched him leave, an ache in my chest. And then I made a choice that would change everything.
I slipped into a black cocktail dress, added gold jewelry, and did my makeup with trembling hands. Ready to see the truth, I headed to the hotel where the party was held.
At the reception desk, I announced myself. “Hi, I’m Claire. Michael’s wife.”
The receptionist frowned. “I’m sorry, ma’am. Michael has already checked in—with his wife.”
My heart froze. Through the glass doors of the ballroom, I saw him—Michael, arm around a woman in a shimmering gold dress, laughing and leaning in to kiss her cheek.
They looked married.
I didn’t confront them. I thanked the receptionist quietly and left the hotel, tears blurring my vision. But I knew one thing: when he returned home, I’d be ready.
