I Cooked a Festive Dinner for 20 People for My Husband’s Birthday — Then He Ditched Me to Celebrate at a Bar

I planned a lavish dinner for my husband Todd’s 35th birthday, but he ditched it to watch a game at a bar. Hurt by his entitlement, I decided to teach him a lesson. After years of taking my efforts for granted—like last Thanksgiving when he claimed credit for my hard work or dismissed a heartfelt photo album gift—I’d had enough.

For two weeks, I poured my heart into planning his “big, proper” birthday dinner, crafting an impressive menu with spinach-stuffed chicken, rosemary potatoes, and a three-layer chocolate cake. Todd contributed nothing, claiming he was “swamped.” On the party day, the house was spotless, the table set, but Todd casually announced he was canceling to go to the bar.

Furious, I refused to cancel. Instead, I texted guests to meet at the bar, packed the food, and set up a feast there. As patrons enjoyed the spread, I explained Todd’s decision to ditch his own party. His family arrived, confused, and his mom called him out. The cake, inscribed “Happy Birthday to My Selfish Husband,” drew laughs. Todd was humiliated, but I felt empowered.

Since then, Todd’s demands have lessened, and he’s been more polite. He knows I won’t tolerate his nonsense anymore—a small victory for me.