As a working mom, I’ve always tried to balance career and family, even as my husband, Mark, struggled after losing his job. I didn’t mind covering most of the expenses, but I started to feel the strain on our relationship. I thought a special trip would help us reconnect.

Mark was reluctant at first, but I convinced him, promising it would be good for all of us. Our son, Eric, seemed excited, too—until he asked if he could bring his girlfriend, Jessica. During the trip, I started noticing odd behavior. Jessica didn’t know basic things about Eric, like his major, and seemed uninterested in connecting with him. Yet, Eric doted on her constantly, which felt off.

Then, I found an expensive necklace in Eric’s suitcase—one he couldn’t possibly afford. When I mentioned it, he seemed nervous, but I let it slide. That’s when I found a text from Mark on Eric’s phone, revealing the truth: Mark and Eric had been scheming together, and Jessica was Mark’s mistress, not Eric’s girlfriend. Eric was covering for him in exchange for money.

I confronted them at dinner, wearing the necklace Mark had bought for Jessica. I revealed the betrayal, telling them I’d been paying for everything—including the trip and the necklace. Heartbroken, I left that night and flew home alone. I later filed for divorce. Mark was left humiliated, and Jessica disappeared. As for Eric, we’re working on rebuilding our relationship. I hope he learns from this mistake and never repeats his father’s actions.