My Husband Claimed My Body Stinks, but What Shocked Me Was Why He Did It

Lilly (35F) reached out, devastated by her husband’s (George) unkind behavior and shocking deceit. Despite a decade of happiness, she noticed a troubling shift in George’s attitude about a year ago—he began criticizing her body odor daily, despite no changes in her hygiene or health. Lilly tried everything to address it, even showering multiple times a day and using excessive deodorant, but the comments continued, causing significant mental distress.

After consulting with family and a doctor, she found no medical reason for the odor. Then, one day, she overheard a disturbing conversation between George and his mother. They were discussing a manipulative tactic used by George’s father: criticizing a woman’s odor to make her feel inferior, ensuring she stays devoted and doesn’t cheat. Lilly was horrified to learn that her husband and mother-in-law had been using this cruel method on her.

Now, Lilly is contemplating divorce and revenge, unable to live with a person who would use such tactics to manipulate and control her. She feels betrayed and disgusted by George’s actions.