Upon my return after an exhausting work trip, I anticipated that my spouse, David, would greet me at the airport. He decided to assist a friend’s wife instead. Feeling upset and enraged, I devised a scheme to discipline him about priorities, little realizing that it would permanently alter our bond.
I had just returned from Tokyo on a work trip. Even though my body hurt from the lengthy travel, my mind was clear and I couldn’t wait to meet David. After five years of marriage, this was the longest period of time we had ever been away.
I took out my phone as soon as the plane landed and texted him, saying, “Landed! I’m eager to see you.
It wasn’t what I was expecting, but the response came almost immediately: “Hey, baby. Not able to attend. Jenny was in need of a lift following her workout. Apologies. Will compensate you for it.
My heart fell. I was filled with fury and amazement as I glanced at the letter. Jenny. Once more. Although it wasn’t the first instance, this was the final straw for David to put her before me. For no other reason than David could never say no to a favor, I wasn’t going to drag my exhausted self home by Uber.
I picked up Mark’s phone. The second ring registered with him. It’s Sarah, Mark. I just got here. Could you just come fetch me?
Naturally, Sarah. Without hesitation, he said, “I’m on my way.” Mark could always be counted on.
Sarah is being picked up at the airport by Mark | Source: Pexels
I pouted as I waited. I was shocked that David had hurt me in this way. The more minutes passed, the more frustrated I became. I was about to lose my cool when Mark stopped to the curb.
After helping me with my stuff, Mark and I got into his car. Observing my clinched hands, he said, “Is everything okay?”
No, Mark. That’s not,” I shouted, my voice quivering with rage. “David left me in favor of Jenny. Once more. This needs to end.
Mark gave an empathetic nod. Sarah, he needs to know how that feels. Do you want to discuss it?
I exhaled deeply, my rage condensing into a determined resolve. Indeed. But let’s also impart some wisdom to him.
I told Mark all the times David had disappointed me for the benefit of others, particularly Jenny, on the drive home. Mark listened and occasionally gave me encouraging nods and hums to keep going. I had a strategy by the time we got to my house.
Come over for dinner this evening, Mark. I added, “I want to properly thank you,” to him as he brought my luggage inside.
“Yes, please,” he answered with a sly smile.
I prepared a fancy lunch for the remainder of the afternoon. I prepared David’s favorite meals, paying close attention to every detail. I arranged the table exquisitely, showcasing our finest china and candles. David was going to have a memorable evening.
David had barely gone through the door when Mark arrived. When David saw the dinner set, his expression brightened, but it soon darkened when he saw Mark.
“What is this whole thing?” David questioned, his expression full of perplexity.
I forced a grin and said, “Dinner, to thank Mark for being there when I needed him.” “Unlike a few individuals I know.”
David blushed as he understood what I was doing. He cast a sidelong glance at an amused Mark, who was already seated at the table.
Sarah preparing Mark and David’s dinner | Source: Pexels
I made sure to compliment Mark’s dependability and assistance during the meal. Mark, you truly saved the day for me. Without you, I don’t know what I would have done,” I said, keeping my gaze on David.
Mark was a fantastic fit. “Sarah, it’s not at all difficult. I’m always glad to assist!
David writhed in his chair, getting more and more uncomfortable by the minute. He avoided looking at me and said, “I, uh, I would’ve come, but Jenny really needed a ride.”
“And I required my spouse,” I retorted sharply. However, you weren’t present.
The remainder of the lunch was awkwardly silent. David was scarcely even trying to eat, but I knew my message was getting through.
After supper, Mark departed, and I at last spoke with David. Can you sense the sensation? to have someone you can’t trust disappoint you? My voice softening, I asked.
With a look of shame on his face, David turned to face me. “Sarah, I apologize. I had no idea how deeply that had upset you.
“Well, you do now,” I said, averting my gaze. “I hope you will keep this in mind when Jenny calls again.”
I headed upstairs after the meal, my head still spinning from all that had transpired. David clicked the door softly behind him as he followed me into our bedroom.
With a serious tone, he remarked, “Sarah, we need to talk.”
I crossed my arms across my chest and turned to face him. Indeed, we do.
With a groan, he combed through his hair. “I understand. It’s a point you’re raising regarding my priorities. However, you must realize that Jenny was in a difficult situation.
“And so was I,” I said in a firm tone. “David, Jenny is not the issue here. It concerns us. I have to understand that sometimes I come first. that you value our partnership.
David lowered his head and slouched. “I apologize. I was hurting you more than I realized.
I grew softer and moved in closer. “David, the airport is not the only issue. It’s about supporting one another. Our connection must come first. We will lose what we have if we don’t.
He gently nodded and clasped my hands in his. “You’re accurate. I swear that I’ll perform better.
The days that ensued were not the same. David tried hard to demonstrate that our relationship was his first priority. He began to check in more frequently and started leaving work early to spend more time with me. His eyes showed me both his will to change and his shame.
A few months later, David’s phone called one evening while we were enjoying a movie on the couch. It was John, Jenny’s husband.
David sprung to attention, his face contorting instantly. How come? Is Jenny about to give birth? However, it’s too soon! Now, just settle down. I’ll assist. Please give me a moment.
He stared at me after hanging up. “Jenny suddenly went into labor. John is going crazy.
Anxiety shot through me, but I immediately ignored it. “How are you going to proceed?”
John’s call is ringing on David’s phone | Source: Pexels
David inhaled deeply. “I’ll give Mark a call. He may assist John in getting Jenny to the hospital. I plan to honor the promise I made to you that I would be here for you.
I saw him swiftly describe the scenario while dialing Mark’s phone. I felt a surge of relief when Mark readily offered to help.
David looked up at me, his eyes kind. Sarah, I’ll remain at your place. Together, we’ll watch for updates.
We sat there, holding hands, chatting about everything save the upcoming delivery as the hours went by. Being with each other and feeling connected felt fantastic. David and I both exhaled in unison when we finally heard that Jenny had given birth to a healthy child.
I turned to David later that night as we laid in bed. I exclaimed, “You really kept your promise,” as my feelings for him grew.
David brushed a strand of hair away from my face and grinned. Sarah, I really did mean it. My top focus is you.
We continued to strengthen our friendship in the months that followed. David kept striking a balance between being there for me and helping others. I noticed a shift in him, a renewed understanding of what it meant to be a partner and to show up when it counted.