My Husband Said He Was on a ‘Year-Long Work Trip Abroad’

When my husband said he was leaving for a year-long work project in Norway, I believed him. But months later, I walked into a bakery in the neighboring town and saw him laughing, holding hands—with my pregnant sister.

I’m Stacey, a graphic designer who’s always loved creating beauty from chaos. My days are peaceful, spent in a home office overlooking the garden, headphones on, pouring myself into work.

Five years ago, I married Liam in my parents’ backyard. He worked in tech consulting—driven, ambitious. I admired his hustle even when it meant long absences.

Then, a year ago, Liam told me about a top-secret Norway project. “It’s hush-hush, Stacey,” he said. “The kind of job that sets us up for life.” I trusted him. Supported him. Even when the details didn’t add up.