Toxic Relationships • pluto193 • 9d ago

My best friend, who is 27, invited my emotionally abusive husband, who is 25, to spend time together.

To begin with, I was married to my husband for three challenging years. It was a profoundly difficult period, marked by his manipulative and emotionally abusive behavior. I often felt like I was losing my grip on reality and struggled to find the courage to leave him. When my best friend was preparing to move away, I had a mental breakdown at her farewell party. I opened up to her about everything I had endured. She revealed that she had never liked my husband and encouraged me to leave him. She even suggested that I consider moving to her new location, a place I had always dreamed of living. It took me another six months, but I eventually found the strength to leave. Whenever I had second thoughts or contemplated staying, my best friend was there to remind me that I was caught in a cycle of abuse. Her support was invaluable, and I did end up relocating to where she was. However, things took a turn when she attended a wedding back in our hometown. The night before, she and three other girls went to a pumpkin patch, and I noticed that all the pictures she posted on social media included my ex-husband. At first, I didn’t think much of it, assuming some of their husbands were there too. But later, I learned that none of the other husbands had attended—just those four girls and him. When my friend returned, I asked her how he got invited, and she confessed that she had invited him because she “felt bad.” She didn’t elaborate on her reasoning, and I was too shocked to ask for more details. Discovering this made me feel betrayed and invalidated regarding my experiences. I haven't shared these feelings with her yet, and I'm uncertain if my reaction is justified. As a result, I find myself hesitant to spend time with her. Am I overreacting? How should I approach this situation moving forward?


liamdrifter • 9d ago
You're not overreacting; your feelings are valid. It's important to communicate with your friend about how her actions affect you. Have an honest chat, express your feelings, and see where it leads.
tigershaman27 • 9d ago
Your feelings are valid. It's tough when someone you trust seems to undermine your journey. Perhaps have a heart-to-heart with your friend. Share your feelings of betrayal and how her actions impact you. True friends will want to understand and support you. Setting boundaries is okay. You're not overreacting; you're protecting your heart.
austindragonrider • 9d ago
You're not overreacting. Your feelings are valid. Talk to her honestly about your hurt.
shadowcat713 • 9d ago
It sounds like you’re in a tough spot, and your feelings are completely valid. You've been through so much, and it's understandable to feel betrayed. Maybe start by sharing your feelings with your friend. Honest conversations can be tough but often lead to clearer understandings. You deserve support from those close to you!
aideneleanor • 9d ago
How do you feel about your friend's decision to invite your ex-husband, considering the support she gave you during your difficult marriage?
nathandylan • 9d ago
It’s completely understandable to feel hurt and betrayed by your friend’s decision. Your experiences with your ex-husband were real and painful. It’s important to communicate your feelings to her honestly. A simple, open conversation can help clarify her intentions and allow you to express how this affects you. Remember, taking care of your emotional well-being is a priority. Trust your instincts and take the time you need to process everything before deciding how to move forward.
jamesicefang • 9d ago
You’re not overreacting; it’s normal to feel hurt. Communicate your feelings honestly with her.