AITA: Woman divorces husband for affair with her sister and cuts ties from mom for supporting sibling

In a moving post on the Reddit forum AITA, a 35-year-old woman shared the distressing reasons behind her decision to divorce her 42-year-old husband, cut off relations with her mother, and begin her life afresh.

Her tale of betrayal and familial strife has ignited a surge of solidarity, with numerous individuals commending her resilience in reconstructing her life amidst formidable obstacles.

OP shares heartbreak after discovering husband's affair with her sister

The original poster (OP) shared that her life, which she believed to be stable and happy, took a sudden turn when she discovered her husband had been cheating with her younger sister, "I found out that my husband was cheating on me with my younger sister (24)."

The affair was uncovered not through suspicion but through a painful revelation when her son overheard an inappropriate conversation between the two during a family gathering. Shocked and devastated, OP confronted her husband, who initially denied the affair but eventually admitted to the betrayal.

"I was utterly shattered. But what made it even worse was that my mom sided with my husband and sister," the OP wrote.

The OP added, "She defended their actions, saying, “Your sister is young and doesn’t know any better,” and, “Your husband must have felt neglected to fall for someone else.” Then she had the audacity to suggest I forgive them and “keep the family together for the kids.”"

The mother's response left the OP astounded. Her father, firmly on her side, denounced the mother's enabling behavior and even initiated divorce proceedings over her moral failings. Meanwhile, OP grappled with her spouse and mother's profound sense of betrayal.

The anguish caused by the affair, coupled with her mother's disregard for her emotions, compelled OP to seek a divorce and sever ties with both her mother and sister. "I was stunned and disgusted," she disclosed.

Despite the emotional burden, she believed it was essential to distance herself from the toxic environment. Her children, while grappling with the consequences, received therapy to assist them in adjusting to the family changes.

“My son is especially angry and has told me he doesn’t want anything to do with his dad,” OP shared. “My daughter is quieter but has been acting out in small ways. We’ve been going to therapy together, and I’ve been doing everything I can to help them navigate this while also trying to heal myself.”

OP finds strength in new relationship and support system amid family turmoil

As the OP navigated the challenging transition, she discovered renewed strength by concentrating on her children and relying on her father and close friends for support. In an unexpected turn of events, she started dating a new person, a 36-year-old woman who has shown remarkable understanding and support.

“She’s great with my kids, and they’ve grown to love her,” OP said, adding, “It makes me feel like I can finally see a light at the end of the tunnel.”

Yet, the turmoil persisted. As the relationship between OP's sister and her ex-husband deteriorated, she accused their mother of fostering the affair.

Concurrently, their mother kept contacting OP, alleging that she was dividing the family and manipulating her into feeling guilty for not pardoning her sister and her ex-husband.

“My mom says my new relationship is ‘a slap in the face’ to our family and claims I’m being selfish for not letting her or my sister back into my life,” OP explained.

Additionally, her ex-husband has been begging for forgiveness, asking for a second chance to be involved in their children’s lives, though OP’s children want nothing to do with him.

Reddit users rally behind OP, praise her for prioritizing her well-being

The post quickly garnered support from Reddit readers who applauded OP for prioritizing her well-being and that of her children. Many felt that her actions were justified given the betrayal and toxic behavior from her family.

A user said, "NTA Block them and the ones running back to your sister and mom with info regarding your life. You don’t need them with the real support you’re getting from your dad, GF and children."

Another added, "NTA. You’re not wrong for divorcing your husband and cutting off your mom and sister after their betrayal. Their lack of support and enabling behavior makes them toxic. You're focusing on rebuilding your life and protecting your children, which is completely justified. You're not being harsh—you're prioritizing your well-being."

One commentator remarked, "NTA. Boy, am I glad not to have a sister. What a horrible situation. I bet your mom cheated on your dad… her reaction is sus."

"NTA If your mother and sister are still able to reach out, then you haven’t cut them off. It’s okay to do so," said one.

A supporter wrote, "You're NTA. Focus on healing, your kids, and your supportive new relationship. Stay strong!"

Other chimed in, "NTA AT ALL. Your ex sounds like a manipulative groomer to me. I would keep him far away from you and your children. I would say it sounds like your sister was manipulated and exploited, so IF you desire reconnecting with her, that would be understandable, but that’s up to you and on your time. Your mom… oof there’s a lot to unpack there but suffice to say cutting her off is entirely acceptable."

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