After weeks of planning the perfect Christmas Eve, my husband, Michael, chose to attend his staff-only office party instead of spending it with our children and me. When a call from another wife revealed the truth about the party, I decided to make a surprise visit.
I adjusted the star on the tree for the hundredth time, determined to make everything perfect. Daisy twirled in her sparkly princess dress, while Max ran around with his plastic sword, playing pirate. The kids were full of Christmas cheer, and I was trying my best to hold it together.
“Mom, when’s Daddy coming?” Max asked, his lip quivering.
“Soon,” I replied, checking my watch. Michael had been coming home later and later lately.
Finally, Michael walked in, distracted and cold. He kissed the kids quickly, then asked me to iron his suit. “I’m heading to the office Christmas party. Don’t wait up,” he said, barely looking at me.
“Daddy promised to read The Night Before Christmas,” Daisy said, her voice cracking.
“Tomorrow, princess,” Michael called over his shoulder, leaving with a quick kiss to my cheek.
I was left feeling small and invisible. Then my phone buzzed—Melissa was calling.
“Lena, what are you wearing to the party? Everyone’s bringing their spouses, right?”
I froze. “The staff-only party?”
“Oh no… Michael didn’t tell you?” she said, her voice apologetic.
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