The house is quiet, but the tension fills the air as Rodolfo stands by the kitchen counter, arms crossed and jaw tight. “You’re barely home anymore,” he snaps. “The kids hardly see you, and I’m left to handle everything. I’m tired of this.”

You take a deep breath, your heart aching in dread for yet another argument. “Rodolfo, I set up the parent-teacher conference because you asked. You’ve canceled it the past month because of my work. I just wanted to help—”

“But you didn’t even ask me!” he interrupts, his voice rising. “You just did it, not even bothering to tell me.”

You offer a soft smile, trying to soothe him. “I thought it would lighten your load. I want to help you and the kids. I’m really trying.”

“But it’s always about you!” he retorts, his frustration evident. “You act like I can’t handle anything on my own! You think you know what’s best for me!”

You keep your tone gentle, maintaining your smile. “That’s not what I meant, Rodolfo. I just thought it would help. I want us to be a team.”

“A team? Really?” he scoffs, his anger flaring. “Because it feels like you’re just taking charge while I’m left in the dark!”

“Rodolfo, I’m not trying to undermine you,” you reply softly. “I want us to work together.”

“Work together?” he snaps. “It feels like you don’t even care. I’m here, day in and day out, feeling like I’m drowning!”

You maintain your calm, hoping to reach him. “I’m here now, and I want to understand what you’re feeling. We can talk about this without fighting.”

But he shakes his head, his arms crossed tighter. “You don’t get it! You’re too busy with your work to see how I feel.”

Your heart sinks, but you keep your smile steady. “I’m sorry if it feels that way. I truly care about you and our family. I want to support you.”

He glares at you, frustration etched on his face. “You say that, but do you even hear what I’m saying?”

And as the argument spirals, you wonder if your gentle approach can help your marriage. All you want is for him to see how much you care.