I spent weeks preparing a special dinner for Todd’s 35th birthday, despite his history of entitlement. Every year, I’ve planned elaborate celebrations, and every year, he’s taken it all for granted. This year, however, Todd’s behavior reached a new level.

On the day of the party, after I’d put in all the work—prepping a delicious three-course meal, decorating, and inviting family—Todd casually told me he was ditching the dinner to watch the game at a bar with his friends. He shrugged it off as no big deal, telling me to cancel everything.

Heartbroken but determined not to be a doormat anymore, I texted the guests, letting them know the party was still on, but we were meeting at the bar instead. I packed all the food and headed to the bar where Todd was already sitting with his friends. As I set up the feast, I loudly explained to the bar patrons that this was supposed to be Todd’s birthday dinner, but he had chosen the game over me.

Todd’s face turned bright red as both families arrived and joined the feast, laughing at his expense. I even served the cake with “HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY SELFISH HUSBAND” written in frosting. By the end of the night, Todd was humiliated, and I drove home feeling victorious.

Todd hasn’t apologized, but his behavior has changed. Now he knows I won’t tolerate his selfishness. It was a win for me.