What’s the best way to handle a cheating partner? Forgive them, walk away, or plot some petty revenge? Well, this Redditor went for the last option, one so elaborate it could inspire a movie script.

After her husband of five years, whom she had known since childhood and once considered her best friend, cheated on her, he initially asked for a divorce. But when he came crawling back, begging for another chance, she agreed—while secretly setting the stage for his downfall. By the time she was done, he’d be homeless, carless, and dealing with the fallout of his parents’ ruined marriage.

Read the full story below.

The woman’s husband of five years, whom she once considered her best friend, cheated on her

Image credits: LightFieldStudios (not the actual photo)

So she plotted an elaborate revenge, the kind that belongs in a movie

Image credits: ShintarTatsiana (not the actual photo)

Image credits: anonymous

Expert shares advice on coping with an unfaithful partner

Finding out that your partner has cheated is devastating. It shatters the trust you built, makes you second-guess your entire relationship, and sends your mind into a spiral of why’s, when’s and what’s. Why did they do this? When did it happen? And most importantly—what do you do next?

That emotional turmoil can lead to anxiety, depression, and even physical symptoms, all while you’re struggling to figure out your path forward. With anger and despair intertwined, the temptation to get even can be overwhelming. But while plotting against a cheating spouse might make for a compelling story, is it really the healthiest way to cope? Experts say no.

“Revenge can have long term ramifications for all parties involved,” MBACP-registered counsellor Jodie James tells Bored Panda.

She explains that the urge for revenge often stems from the intense emotions triggered by infidelity. “Whether it is anger, sadness or betrayal, your feelings are valid and understandable. However, acting on feelings to justify revenge can cause additional negativity for all involved and inhibit the healing process,” James says.

Instead of holding onto resentment, James suggests accepting your emotions and having a direct conversation about the issue. “The feelings and emotions that come from infidelity should be recognized and validated. This means open and honest communication with your partner,” she says.

Of course, that’s easier said than done. But it’s worth noting that between 60-75% of couples who experience infidelity choose to stay together. That doesn’t necessarily mean they do it out of love. Some stay because they fear being alone, face financial constraints, or worry about the impact on their children. This is why turning to professional guidance can provide support in navigating the aftermath.

“Couples who struggle to effectively communicate can seek out couples counseling for help,” James advises. “A couples counselor will work with the couple to facilitate communication as a healthy way to process the emotions associated with infidelity.”

However, when facing heartbreak, focusing on your own well-being—both mentally and physically—is just as necessary as tending to the relationship.

“For a person who has felt the pain of betrayal, it may be a good idea to reconnect with oneself,” says James. “So often, we get caught up in what has happened within the relationship that we lose touch with ourselves. Taking time for oneself, attending to personal needs, and maintaining a sense of autonomy can also help with the healing process.”

Image credits: Priscilla Du Preez (not the actual photo)

The woman later revealed that his parents knew about the cheating, so she made sure they paid the price too

Readers loved the drama of her revenge

Though some warned it could have potential legal consequences

When navigating troubled relationships, trust and communication are crucial components in determining the path forward. Before resorting to extreme measures, it’s essential to recognize risk factors in relationships that might influence such drastic decisions. In fact, understanding the dynamics of controlling behavior in partnerships can provide deeper insights into why one may contemplate significant life changes.

If you’re interested in exploring how damaging such behavior can be, consider learning about experiences of manipulative relationships and their impact.

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