I went on maternity leave a year ago, completely devoting myself to our son, Ethan.

Late-night feedings, endless diaper changes, keeping our house together, making sure Tyler always had a hot meal waiting after work… I did it all.

And honestly? I didn't mind. Being a mom was challenging but rewarding in ways my office job never was.

The tiny smiles and the first giggles… they just filled my heart with joy I can never explain in words.

But after a year, it was time for me to go back to work. I was actually excited. I missed adult conversations that didn't revolve around baby food. I missed feeling like more than just a mom.

Except, there was a problem.

"Tyler, none of my work clothes fit anymore," I said one evening while folding laundry. Ethan was finally down for the night, and Tyler was sitting on the couch.

"What do you mean?" he asked.

I sighed, holding up a pencil skirt that used to be my go-to office staple. "I mean, my body changed after having your child. I've tried everything in my closet, and nothing fits right anymore."

"So? Just wear something else."

"That's what I'm saying. I don't have anything else. I need to buy a few new outfits for the office." I sat beside him on the couch. "I was hoping we could use some of our savings for that."

That's when he gave me the look that made me feel like I was asking for something out of this world.

"Do you have any idea how much daycare is going to cost?" he asked. "Plus, all the baby expenses? Your job barely covers those costs as it is."

"It's just a few outfits, Tyler. I can't exactly go back to work without clothes."

That's when he said it.

"Your job costs us a lot. Just get a job as a cleaner. You don't need fancy clothes for that."

I couldn't believe his words.

Had he really just said that? This man whom I'd been making breakfast, lunch, and dinner for? The one whose laundry I'd been doing? Whose baby I'd been taking care of 24/7 while he continued his career without interruption?

"A cleaner?" I repeated.

Tyler shrugged. "It's practical. Better hours for childcare too."

I had sacrificed my body, my sleep, and my career momentum for our family. And now, when I needed something basic to continue moving forward, he couldn't even be bothered to support me.

Instead of yelling at him, I just smiled and said, "You're right, babe. I'll figure something out."

And I did.

But not in the way he expected.

I wasn't about to beg for basic respect or a few new shirts.

Instead, I followed his suggestion and got a job as a cleaner.

But not just anywhere.

I applied at his office.

Tyler works at a prestigious corporate law firm downtown. When I discovered they needed part-time cleaning staff through a job listing online, it felt like the universe was handing me exactly what I needed.