When Viola unintentionally overheard a discussion that disclosed more about her husband, Ross, than she could have ever imagined, her entire world fell apart. After learning of his infidelity, she made a strong public statement at their 15th anniversary party, surprising their friends and family by declaring their marriage to be ended.
Many people thought Ross and Viola’s marriage was perfect. Together, they had survived many storms and created an apparently enviable existence. “Ross, let’s throw a big party for our 15th wedding anniversary!” Viola said, thinking about their approaching 15th wedding anniversary. With a cheerful smile, Ross answered in the affirmative, displaying no evidence of the turmoil that lurked beneath.
They had just had their third kid, so their lives seemed full and content. When Viola told her kids, “Mommy needs a pretty dress for the party,” she was heading to her favorite store to purchase for a new frock to commemorate the event.
Viola was excited to see the clothes in the store, but her pleasure quickly turned to shock when she heard Ross’s voice coming from a nearby dressing room. “My wife is…a shrinking violet, you know,” he said, his voice cutting through the veil. This is not an outfit she would ever wear! She would also want a size larger due to her protruding tummy, but you look amazing in it, sweetie! Viola was shocked and devastated to learn that Ross was making fun of her appearance in addition to flirting with another lady.
Viola was shocked by the revelation, but she forced herself to calm down long enough to leave the boutique without going straight to Ross since she knew she needed more proof. It was even more difficult for Viola to reconcile the guy she saw and the man she heard when Ross was at home because of his consistent, kind, and fun behavior with their kids.
“How was your shopping experience?” Ross inquired naively when she got back. “It was alright,” Viola said, trying to hide her distress. “But I didn’t find anything I liked.” Though he was unaware of the tempest building inside her, Ross calmly soothed her.
That night, Viola made sure their kids were sleeping before breaking into Ross’s phone because she was desperate for information. Her suspicions were validated when she saw flirtatious messages exchanged with a Jenna. In an attempt to learn the whole truth of Ross’s adultery, Viola was forced by the finding to engage a private investigator.
Ross saw her aloof manner while she awaited the findings and inquired as to her well-being. Viola lied and said that she was just tired from taking care of their infant. Ross volunteered his assistance without knowing about the ongoing probe.
Eventually, the investigator gave Viola hard proof of Ross’s affair, including texts and images exchanged over several months. With this knowledge in hand, Viola made the decision to openly confront Ross at their anniversary celebration.
Viola remained hidden on the day of the celebration until Ross presented her to their guests. Ross complimented her as she walked over, not realizing the impending storm. “Honey, you look gorgeous.” How did you proceed? He began, “I thought you were a—,” but Viola abruptly interrupted, asking, “A shrinking violet?” When Ross realized his trick had been discovered, the room became quiet.
Viola used this occasion to speak to the assembled friends and family and share the difficult reality. “I heard Ross tell a salesperson that I am overweight and a shrinking violet. It helped me understand that I deserve more even if it hurt my heart. I’ve made the decision to dissolve our marriage. With conviction in her voice, she said, “I deserve someone who loves and respects me for who I am.”
The visitors’ reactions were a mix of encouragement and amazement; others cheered for Viola’s bravery. Viola added, “Unfortunately, I can’t meet my husband’s requirements for a wife,” to which Ross was unable to reply and stood still. He added, “I need to go two or three sizes up because of my big belly.” I’m done trying to fit your mold, Ross.
After saying her last goodbyes, Viola thanked everyone and departed the celebration with a sense of empowerment and relief. Head held high, she stepped out into the cold air, eager to start a new chapter in her life free from dishonesty and contempt.
A pivotal moment in Viola’s life was her courageous decision to openly face her husband. Her phone lighted up with encouraging texts from friends as she drove away, confirming her determination to stand up for herself and look for happiness elsewhere. “I’m grateful. I have to take care of myself. She replied with, “It’s time for a fresh start. I’m looking forward to a future full of freedom and self-respect.”
This turning point in Viola’s life was a powerful affirmation of her value and her determination to not allow anyone—especially her husband—to belittle her. It served as an example of the empowerment that results from taking charge of one’s own future and demonstrated the resiliency and fortitude that come from facing difficult facts and making difficult decisions.