Jake laughed, assuming Lisa was complying. But his smile dimmed as he read. “Hold on, what is all of this?” His expression was filled with disbelief as he squinted at the figures. “A personal trainer for $1,200? $700 for groceries a month? Lisa, what the devil?

Lisa folded her arms and leaned against the kitchen island. You want me to get up at five in the morning, work out, prepare delicious breakfasts, clean, cook, and entertain your guests. Don’t you believe we should set aside money for all of that?

Jake’s eyes were fixed on the total. “$75,000 annually? You’re leaving your position?

She gave a shrug. “How else can I carry out your strategy? I can’t be the “ideal wife” and work, can I?

He glanced at the pages, losing confidence. “I… I didn’t mean…” Wide-eyed, he mumbled. “I didn’t want for it to be this way, Lisa. I had this thought.

She spoke calmly but firmly while maintaining eye contact. “What did you think? That, like a project, I could “improve” myself? As she went on, the pain was evident. “Lists and procedures aren’t important in marriage. Respect is at issue. Additionally, you will be paying far more than what is shown on that document if you ever attempt to “fix” me in this way again.

Finally realizing the ridiculousness of his own expectations, he stood stunned.