In an effort to manage my hectic work schedule better, I recently decided to prep my breakfasts for a few days in advance. It's something small, but it makes a big difference for me to have a meal ready each morning. Everything was set perfectly until my husband, Dave, unexpectedly halved the stash before I even had the chance to stow it in the fridge for cooling.

The items I prepared weren't elaborate, just simple grab-and-go meals. So imagine my frustration when I discovered that Dave had consumed five out of the twelve portions I prepared. That’s nearly half of them in one sitting! I had told him beforehand that I was prepping these meals to use throughout the week, so it wasn't a secret.

When I brought it up, gently pointing out how many he had eaten, I hoped Dave would understand. Instead, he suggested I should take it as a compliment. He went on about how, as his wife, I should feel pleased to cook for him and that he should have the freedom to eat any amount he chooses. His reaction escalated quickly, accusing me of not being supportive for merely mentioning it.

While I don’t mind sharing a bit—two, perhaps three portions would have been fine—the fact that he nearly depleted half the supply before I could enjoy even one left a sour taste. I can't help but wonder: am I overreacting? Is it wrong to expect to enjoy the fruits of my meal prep labor?

Imagine if this situation unfolded on a reality show. The dramatic confrontation, perhaps in a confessional booth with dramatic background music, would highlight the tension. Viewers would likely be divided; some might sympathize with me for wanting to keep my meals, while others might side with Dave, seeing it as an overreaction. The dynamics of marital give-and-take could be scrutinized under the public and unforgiving lens of reality TV, possibly making the whole episode a talking point for viewers on partner expectations and respect over shared resources.

Should spouses ask before eating meal prepped food?

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