Clark bought first-class tickets for himself and his mom, leaving me in economy with our kids. I didn’t take it lying down—I made sure his “luxury” flight came with a lesson he wouldn’t forget.

At the airport, while juggling our toddler and bags, I asked where we were sitting. Clark barely looked up and said, “Oh, about that… Mom and I are in first class. She hates long flights, and I need rest.” I was stuck in economy with the kids. Nadia, his mom, showed up with designer bags, ready for their “wonderful flight.”

Boarding, Clark and Nadia toasted with champagne while I wrestled with the kids. Then I remembered—I’d slipped his wallet from his bag at security. Two hours later, Clark panicked when asked to pay for his lavish order in first class. Without his wallet, he was desperate and embarrassed.

He finally came to me in economy, asking for cash. I “found” $200, leaving him short. His first-class trip turned awkwardly silent. When we landed, I kept his wallet—justice for the economy ride. If your spouse deserts you for first class, a little creative payback goes a long way!