I have been married for 7 years. During the "golden" years (about 4 - 5) we had a great marriage. We were truly a team, more than just newlyweds, we were friends, companions, partners. Our relationship was an exemplary movie of 'what do do' and 'how to do it's. I was happy.

When my daughter was born, we had absolutely no savings, so we ended up using credit and debt in order to keep things going. Delivery room, doctor checks, and basic insurance was coming out of our pockets and as soon as we were paid, the account emptied to pay for credit cards and a very expensive mortgage. Then, AI took the world by storm and I found myself looking for a job.

The aftermath was devastating. We lost our house, we moved cities and we ended up stranded on a small town where life is just a bit cheaper.

My wife started to take antidepressants and I did everything it takes to get my job back. I still have no secured job but I remain positive.

Then, the day came. We were planning a small bit meaningful birthday party for my daughter. From freelancing and debt collecting I was surviving with about 3K (Which is A LOT in my country). Life was good again despite everything, we were going to make it. It would take one year or two but we will land on our feet. I promised that to my daughter. I invited my partents to the birthday, my mom was baking a cake and they bought tickets to travel. Then, on a cold morning, I was feeding pancakes to my daughter and my wife simply turned her head and said "I think it would be better if you don't bring your family to the birthday". I managed to stop her, to let her know that train of thought was going nowhere but to a fatal derailment. She hesitated for a second and doubled down. "No, call you parents and tell them not to come".

It was a deep wound. The saddest moment of my life. To say "Hi mom". To listen how excited she was. Getting the 'good stuff ' for the cake and telling me how she was planning to travel so they would be on time.

After explaining everything she said "I understand son. I don't want to cause any trouble. Please say hello to you daughter ok? Please take care".

The weekend and the party went on. I didn't wanted to bring anything up. I wanted a good memory of this day. My sweet angel was so happy. I felt normal for a moment.

She's sleeping now and I'm chewing the words that will come out of my mouth tomorrow. Or maybe the day after. I need help. Never said those words. I'm hurt beyond repair. Nothing can save this broken relationship.