Returning from a business trip to Tokyo, I eagerly awaited seeing my husband, David. After landing, I texted him, “Landed! Can’t wait to see you.” His reply was unexpected: “Hey, babe. Can’t make it. Jenny needed a ride after her gym session. Sorry. Will make it up to you.” My heart sank. Jenny had come between us before, but this was the last straw.

I quickly called my reliable friend, Mark. He agreed to pick me up without hesitation. As we drove home, I vented my frustrations about David prioritizing Jenny over me. Mark listened sympathetically, and by the time we reached home, I had a plan.

I prepared an elaborate dinner, inviting Mark to join us. When David arrived, his face lit up at the sight of the meal but fell when he saw Mark. Throughout dinner, I praised Mark’s reliability, pointedly contrasting it with David’s behavior. “Mark, you really came through for me today. I don’t know what I would have done without you,” I said, my eyes fixed on David.

After dinner, I confronted David. “Do you see how it feels to be let down by someone you rely on?” David, filled with guilt, apologized, “I’m sorry, Sarah. I didn’t realize how much it hurt you.” I explained that our relationship needed to come first. In the following days, David made a conscious effort to prioritize us, showing a newfound awareness of being a true partner.

Months later, when Jenny went into early labor, David chose to stay with me and asked Mark to help instead. This gesture reaffirmed his commitment. Our bond strengthened as David balanced helping others with being present for me. “I meant it, Sarah. You’re my priority,” he said, our relationship growing stronger than ever.