After returning from a tiring business trip, I expected my husband, David, to pick me up. Instead, he was helping a friend. Furious, I devised a plan to teach him a lesson about priorities, which ultimately transformed our relationship.

Upon landing, I texted David, excited to see him. His reply crushed me: “Hey, babe. Can’t make it. Jenny needed a ride after her gym session. Sorry.” This wasn’t the first time he prioritized Jenny over me, but it would be the last.

I called Mark, a reliable friend, who agreed to pick me up. As we drove home, I vented about David’s neglect. Mark listened sympathetically and encouraged me to confront David.

That evening, I invited Mark to dinner to thank him, cooking all of David’s favorites. When David arrived, he was confused to see Mark at our dinner table. Throughout the meal, I praised Mark’s reliability, making David realize how much his actions hurt me.

After dinner, David apologized, promising to prioritize our relationship. Over the following months, he made a conscious effort to be more present. When Jenny went into labor unexpectedly, David asked Mark to help, choosing to stay with me. This shift strengthened our bond, showing me that David truly valued our relationship.

“You’re my priority,” he said, and he proved it every day thereafter.