For 18 years, my husband and I shared a life built on what I thought was a solid foundation of love and respect. But somewhere along the way, I lost myself. Two years ago, I became involved with one of his close friends. It was a terrible decision, one born out of my own restlessness and confusion. At the time, I convinced myself it was just a way to fill a void, a phase that would eventually end. I never imagined the pain it would cause, or that it would shatter everything my husband and I had built together.

I didn’t come forward with the truth on my own. My husband discovered the affair, and the look on his face when he confronted me is something I’ll never forget. He was devastated, a mix of heartbreak, betrayal, and disbelief. It was as though he didn’t know me anymore—and maybe, after everything, neither did I. My actions left deep scars, and I don’t blame him for the anger and hurt he feels. But now, all I want is to make things right, to earn his forgiveness and rebuild what I destroyed.

Since that day, I’ve been trying to show him that I am genuinely sorry and willing to do whatever it takes to heal the wounds I caused. I’ve sought therapy to understand why I made those choices, to ensure it never happens again. I’ve tried to be transparent, giving him the space to process his emotions while staying close enough to show my commitment.

But I know it’s not easy. Forgiveness isn’t something I can demand from him—it’s something he has to find on his own. All I can do is be patient, consistent, and hope that, in time, he can see the changes I’m making and believe in us again. I long to rebuild our marriage, to make it stronger than it ever was, but I realize that his trust may take years to fully restore, if it ever can be. All I can do now is prove, every single day, that I am worthy of his forgiveness and trust.