My inebriated spouse attempted to make fun of me in front of his coworkers, but I did something that caused him to greatly regret what he had done.
There are times when you have to confront reality. when, in front of everyone, the world you’ve worked so hard to create collapses. For me, it happened during what was meant to be a party honoring my husband’s accomplishments.
I remained quiet for a while. lived under his shadow. When I wanted to cry, I smiled. I stood by him when I was at my weakest. He constantly assured me that without him, I would never amount to anything. And I had faith in him. All I ever heard when I attempted to disprove him was, “You’re just my wife.” Recognize your position.
And it was more of the same that night. To commemorate the anniversary of his firm, my husband had brought together his friends, coworkers, and business associates. Visitors, giggling, glass clinking, congrats. He was the focus of attention and was showered with compliments. Like a statue, I sat beside him, supposed to be quiet and beautiful.
He then got to his feet, lifted his glass, and started his toast:
— “I am grateful to all those who contributed to my success. However, I must admit that I handled everything by myself. Only me. And you, my love. “I hope you finally realize it’s time to get a real job and stop leeching off me,” he said, grinning as he turned to face me. After all, a successful man’s wife ought to be deserving. Not merely a lovely package.
The room was filled with uneasy laughter. Others turned their heads away. And he continued:
— “Marriage is an investment, I have always maintained. But investments don’t always pay off, just like in business. Perhaps it’s time to take another look.
Something within of me suddenly exploded. I was unable to remain silent any longer 
— “Now that the truth is being discussed… Greetings, guests. Although you respect this man, you are unaware of his private life. He was just hugging his business buddy, and you know what he said about that? “A stupid, unsophisticated idiot who, without me, couldn’t even print a business card.”
He labeled you “an old goat with money but no brains.” “And you,” I said, nodding to his largest client. Simply keep nodding and grinning.
I looked around at the others:
Regarding his staff, he stated that he “keeps them on a short leash” and promised to “crush anyone who tries to make a move.”
There was silence in the room. Nobody was grinning. Not even those who often made the loudest laughs.
Then my husband’s largest client rose from the table, approached him, and remarked, coolly, almost icily:
— “The agreement is terminated. I don’t deal with jerks.
Then came another. And yet another. People began to get up, approach, and declare that they were ceasing to cooperate. A few quietly departed the room.
And he just held his drink down as he stood there in shock. He was at a loss for words for the first time in his life.
I just grabbed my handbag and left. High head. I was not a shadow anymore.
And what do you know? I haven’t had any regrets about it at all.
