I still remember the day my husband, Alex, told me he had a conference out of state. He was going to be away for a week, and I was looking forward to some much-needed alone time. We had been trying to conceive through IVF, and the stress was taking a toll on both of us. Our savings account was dwindling, but we had finally reached our goal of $18,000. I was ecstatic, thinking that we were one step closer to having a baby.
But little did I know, Alex had other plans. When I checked our joint account, I was shocked to see that the balance had plummeted to $311.09. I felt like I had been punched in the gut. How could he do this to me? We had sacrificed so much, working extra hours, skipping vacations, and cutting back on expenses, all for the sake of having a child.
I waited for him to return, pretending that everything was fine. But inside, I was seething with anger and hurt. When he came home, tanned and relaxed, I knew I had to keep my cool. I suggested we take a trip together, just the two of us, to a mountain spa resort. He was thrilled, and I could see the guilt written all over his face.
At the resort, I watched him enjoy the luxurious amenities, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of betrayal. I knew I had to confront him, but I wanted to do it on my terms. So, I planned the perfect moment. We went on a hike, just the two of us, and I finally let him have it. I told him I knew about the lies, the secret trip with his friends, and the drained savings account.
He tried to justify his actions, saying he needed a break before we started our family. But I wouldn’t let him off the hook. I told him that he had chosen himself over our family, and that I deserved better. I left him on the mountain, hiking down alone, while he was left to contemplate his actions.
When I returned to the resort, I checked into a room, ordered a cappuccino, and booked a massage. I left a note for him, saying, “This is what betrayal feels like. Hope you enjoyed the view.” I knew it was a low blow, but I was hurt, and I wanted him to feel the same pain.
When he returned to the room, I handed him a manila envelope containing the cancellation of our IVF paperwork, the termination notice for our apartment lease, and a copy of my new apartment agreement. I told him I was leaving, and that he could deal with the consequences of his actions.
It’s been a while now, and we’re not divorced yet, but the papers are drawn up. I’m living in a new apartment, focusing on myself, and preparing for a new chapter in my life. I’ve even scheduled an appointment with an adoption agency, something I’ve always wanted to explore. I’m excited to start this new journey, alone if I have to, but ready for whatever comes next.
