Darla moved in “for a few weeks” after knee surgery—fifteen months ago. She hated my houseplants, mocked my cooking, and made endless passive-aggressive comments. Mike barely stood up for me, brushing off her behavior as “just how she is.” After a year of trying to keep the peace, something inside me snapped when she accused me of neglecting Mike.

I started a quiet rebellion—letting messes slide, canceling her appointments, and even sneaking her favorite pink casserole dish into a garage sale. Then I got serious, dropping subtle hints to Mike about moving out, hoping he’d finally choose us. One night, after Darla complained yet again, I told Mike I needed a break—from her, the tension, and pretending. I packed a bag and stayed with my cousin while Darla floundered alone.

Three weeks later, Mike called. “She’s driving me crazy,” he admitted. I told him to come get me, but Darla wouldn’t be there when I returned. She left, furious and accusing me of manipulation, but Mike stood firm: “She’s my wife. It’s time you respected that.”

When I came home, peace returned. The apartment felt like ours again, and Mike finally showed he valued our marriage above all. With Darla gone, the tension lifted, and the life we had dreamed of building together was finally ours to enjoy.