For my husband’s birthday, I made a fancy dinner for 20 people. But he ditched me to go to a bar to celebrate.

For Todd’s 35th birthday, I planned an extravagant dinner with custom place cards, golden-rimmed china, and a gold-topped cake, juggling preparations around my job for two weeks. Hours before guests arrived, Todd casually announced he’d rather watch the game at a bar and told me to cancel. Instead of arguing, I texted guests to meet at Main Street Bar, packed the feast, and brought it there. As I set up the party table, Todd’s jaw dropped. Our families, dressed for the ditched dinner, arrived. His parents disapproved, and the crowd loved the cake’s

message: Happy Birthday to My Selfish Husband! They ate, laughed, and applauded. Todd was embarrassed; I was radiant. The bartender offered me free drinks. At home, Todd sulked, claiming I humiliated him. I countered, “You humiliated yourself.” Two weeks later, he’s been quiet and helpful. Some men learn only through cake and public applause. I won—with style.