When my mom had a stroke, I asked my husband if I could borrow his car to visit her. His response shocked me: “Sure—$65 a day.” It felt like he didn’t see me as his wife, just a roommate with a bill to pay. The car, which we had chosen together and partly paid for, suddenly felt like his alone. That moment made me realize how much distance had grown between us.

The next morning, I left with my friend Jess instead of using his car. While I was away, Liam struggled with everything I usually manage—Emma missed school, the house was a mess, the fridge was empty, and even our dog had an accident. Seeing him overwhelmed made me understand how much I do every day and how little he valued my work. It was a hard but necessary wake-up call.