I Overheard a Secret Conversation Between My Husband and His Female Coworker, and I’ve Never Felt So Humiliated Before

I’ve been with my husband 15 years, married 11—solid relationship until now.

For years I packed his work lunch. A month ago he said a new food stand opened near his office and he’d eat there instead. He stopped asking; I packed maybe 5 times, unsure if he ate them.

Last week he butt-dialed me during lunch. I heard him rave about a woman’s cooking—turns out a coworker makes his meals. Then she asked, “Better than your wife’s?” He laughed: “No doubt! Hers is tasteless for starters.”

15 years of cooking, and he complains to her? Her question felt flirty, not innocent.

I ended the call, texted: “Don’t worry about my tasteless cooking—eat from the bin.” He apologized, claimed he was “trying to seem cool,” admitted lying to avoid making me jealous. Started with the stand, then accepted her food.

I’ve ignored him since. No lunches, no dinners. Suitcase packed under the bed. He says I’m punishing him; I’m an inch from leaving for my parents’. Dad says work it out; Mom backs any choice.

I’m furious—want space. Is a few days away best, or overkill?