Just before the trip, I’d also received unexpected news: an inheritance from a distant relative. I’d planned to share it with Luke, hoping it would be a joyful moment for us. But after what I’d seen, I had no intention of telling him.

The news reached him anyway—through his mother. That same morning, as I packed to cut the trip short, Luke showed up with flowers, apologizing. “I’m sorry for everything, but with your inheritance, you could hire a trainer to lose weight.”

I was stunned. He thought a quick apology and a “fix yourself” suggestion would make things right? Holding back my frustration, I replied, “Maybe I will, Luke. But not for you.”

Realization hit him then, but it was too late. I told him calmly, “I’m divorcing you.”

He looked desperate, saying, “Please, Hannah, don’t leave. I told my friends I’d be getting an SUV to go off-roading with them, and without your money, I can’t.”

It was clear he valued my inheritance more than our marriage. “Find another way to get your SUV,” I said. “Goodbye.”

Returning home, I felt an incredible wave of support from friends and family. I realized I didn’t need Luke’s validation. I was enough just as I was. I focused on myself, my kids, and my happiness.

Over the next few months, I worked on myself—not for anyone else, but for me. I started new hobbies, spent time with friends, and even thought about going back to school. One day, while shopping, I ran into Luke. He looked surprised to see me healthier and happier than he’d left me. “Hannah, you look amazing. How are you and the kids?”

For the first time, I felt free. “We’re doing great, Luke. Excuse me, I’m on my way somewhere.”

It wasn’t easy, but I’m learning to love myself fully. So, what do you think? Would you have responded the same way, or handled things differently?