After one decade of marriage, my husband and I have shared just about everything—our dreams, our fears, and all the little moments that make up a life together. So, when I bumped into my ex the other day, I didn’t think it was a big deal. It was a quick, friendly hello in a coffee shop, a brief conversation about how much time had passed and where life had taken us.

When I got home, I mentioned it to my husband casually, not realizing the impact it would have. At first, he didn’t say much, but I could tell something was bothering him. As the days passed, I noticed a change in him—he seemed more distant, quieter, and there was a hint of jealousy in his voice when he asked about my day.

I tried to brush it off, thinking it would pass, but it’s clear that running into my ex has stirred up old insecurities. I never imagined that a brief encounter could have this effect on him, especially after 20 years of being together. I’ve always been open about my past, and I thought he was comfortable with it. But now, it feels like there’s a shadow hanging over us, a reminder of a time that I thought we’d left far behind.

I’ve been doing my best to reassure him, to show him that he is the one I chose to spend my life with, but it’s hard when old feelings of jealousy and insecurity resurface. I just want him to see that my ex is a part of my past, and he is my everything. I hope we can work through this together, and that he can see the love and commitment I have for him hasn’t changed.