I Cooked a Festive Dinner for 20 People for My Husband’s Birthday — Then He Ditched Me to Celebrate at a Bar

I thought I was being a good wife by throwing a festive dinner for my husband Todd’s 35th birthday, but just as guests were about to arrive, he told me he was ditching the party to watch the game at a bar. What followed? Let’s just say, I got the last laugh.

Six years into our marriage, Todd’s entitlement was unbearable. Every year, I’d go all out for his birthday, and he’d take it for granted. This year, his attitude reached new heights.

Todd’s idea for Thanksgiving had been to host both our families, but he left all the work to me, only taking credit for it afterward. Then, on his birthday last year, after I created a heartfelt gift, he dismissed it and asked, “Where’s the real gift?” It crushed me.

When his 35th birthday rolled around, Todd demanded a big dinner, which I agreed to plan despite his history. I spent weeks planning the perfect evening, while Todd did nothing but complain about work.

The day of the party, he casually told me he was ditching the dinner to watch the game with friends. Furious and humiliated, I refused to cancel the party. Instead, I texted everyone to meet us at the bar.

I packed up the food and went to the bar, setting up the meal in front of Todd and his friends. The patrons and our families quickly caught on, and Todd was mortified as I revealed how he had ditched the dinner I’d worked so hard for.

By the time I served the cake, it read, “HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY SELFISH HUSBAND!” The bar erupted in laughter, and Todd was left red-faced.

The evening ended with his family criticizing him, while the bartender even offered drinks on the house. At home, Todd complained about being humiliated, but I reminded him that he humiliated himself.

Two weeks later, Todd’s behavior has improved—he’s less entitled and more respectful, though he hasn’t apologized. At least now he knows not to mess with me. That’s a win.