Cleaning the bathroom on a mundane Tuesday, I discovered a burner phone in the toilet tank. My heart raced as I turned it on and unlocked it using our wedding date. Explicit messages between my husband, Matt, and a woman named Lola filled the screen. I felt sick but composed myself, placing the phone back.

“Hey, babe, what’s for dinner?” Matt asked casually. I forced a smile. “Pasta. How’s work?” “Busy,” he replied, not meeting my eyes.

I texted my friends and my brother Lucas, a lawyer. We met at Nicole’s place to plan. “Revenge,” I said. Lucas advised me on my rights, while Nicole and Tara helped strategize.

Friday arrived. Matt left for his “work meeting,” and I headed to the restaurant where Kelly had reserved a table near Matt’s. Arriving with my friends, we waited. Matt walked in, holding Lola’s hand. He froze upon seeing me.

“Matt, darling,” I said, raising my glass. The restaurant hushed. “To my wonderful husband, who thought he could cheat and get away with it.” Gasps filled the room. Lola’s smile vanished.

Setting the burner phone on their table, I smirked. “Next time, find a better hiding spot.” Matt looked panicked. “Jenna, please, let’s talk.” “We’re past talking,” I replied. Turning to Lola, I said, “I’m sorry you had to find out this way.”

Lola rushed out, furious. I felt empowered as we left Matt to deal with the aftermath. Outside, I breathed deeply. “You were amazing,” Nicole said, hugging me. “That was epic,” Tara added.

We headed to a bar to celebrate. Nicole raised her glass. “To new beginnings.” “To freedom,” Tara added. “To strength,” Lucas said. I smiled, clinking glasses. “To the future.”

With my friends and family by my side, I was ready for whatever came next. Matt might have broken my trust, but he hadn’t broken me.