Sometimes, life throws challenges your way—like a thoughtless husband. When mine suggested I become a cleaner instead of buying new work clothes, I decided to follow his advice… but in a way he never expected.

After a year on maternity leave, I was eager to return to work. I missed feeling like more than just “Mom.” But there was a problem—none of my old office clothes fit after pregnancy.

So, I asked my husband, Tyler, if I could buy a few new outfits.

His reply?

“Your job is expensive for us. Why not work as a cleaner? That way, you won’t need fancy clothes.”

…

I just stood there, stunned.

I had given up so much for this man—caring for our baby, keeping the house in order, making sure he had everything he needed. And now? He wouldn’t even support me with something so small.

I nodded, smiled, and said, “You’re absolutely right, honey. I’ll figure something out.”

And I did.

Just not in the way he expected.

Taking his advice, I found a cleaning job—but not just anywhere. I applied at his office.

For three weeks, I worked discreetly, making sure to avoid his floor.

Then, I overheard that Tyler was hosting an important client meeting on Wednesday night. That evening, I walked into his office in my gray uniform.

He was mid-presentation when he saw me. His body stiffened.

A coworker, who had seen me at company events, frowned. “Wait… this is your wife? What’s she doing here?”

Tyler faltered. “I… I don’t know. Marilyn, what are you doing?”

I kept my voice even. “Oh, just following my husband’s great advice! Since my old job was too expensive with childcare and work attire, he suggested cleaning would be more ‘practical.’”

Silence. Every eye shifted to Tyler, whose face turned from pale to deep red. The tension in the room was palpable.

In the following weeks, I always saved his office for last, ensuring his coworkers were still around as I cleaned.

One night at home, he finally confronted me.

“You know that’s not what I meant,” he sighed. “I was just stressed about money.”

I laughed. “Funny how my anxiety about returning to my career didn’t matter, but your financial stress made belittling me completely fine.”

At that moment, Tyler had no idea that my cleaning shifts had led to unexpected conversations.

One evening, Carol from HR noticed me reading a legal brief I had found on a desk. Curious, she struck up a conversation.

When she learned about my background in corporate communications and how I ended up working as a cleaner, she was shocked.

“We actually have an opening in the marketing department,” she said. “The pay is good, and the schedule would fit your childcare needs. Would you be interested?”

I didn’t just want the job—I was ready for it. It paid significantly more than Tyler’s.

The final step in my plan unfolded at the next company event, where spouses were invited. Tyler had pleaded with me not to go, insisting we should “keep work and home separate,” but I refused.

I arrived late, dressed in an elegant navy gown. Tyler’s eyes widened as Carol from HR handed me a glass of champagne.

“Everyone, meet our newest team member,” she announced with a smile. “Marilyn is joining the marketing department on Monday as our new Communications Director.”

Over the next few months, everything shifted.

Now, six months later, my wardrobe reflects the confident woman I’ve become.

Meanwhile, Tyler has lost his job. He’s apologized over and over.

And now, the decision is mine. Do I forgive him and give our marriage another shot? Or is it time to move on for good?