AITA for leaving my husband after I found out he was cheating with our family friend?

I (33F) have been married to my husband, Mark (36M), for eight years. We met in college, connected instantly over our love for music and travel, and got married three years later. We have two children, Emma (6) and Jack (4). On the surface, everything seemed perfect. Mark was attentive, loving, and always appeared committed to our family.

Our family friend, Vanessa (32F), has been part of our life for over a decade. She visits often, attends our parties, and even helps babysit occasionally. At first, I trusted her completely and considered her like family.

About a year ago, I started noticing subtle signs that something was off. Mark began taking longer “business trips” and spending late nights at work. Vanessa began visiting our home more frequently, sometimes alone. Small details, like Mark leaving the room whenever Vanessa called or checking messages secretly, started raising red flags.

One evening, I came home unexpectedly from work and found Mark and Vanessa sitting unusually close on the couch in the living room. They were laughing, whispering, and occasionally touching. My heart sank. Something about their intimacy didn’t feel right.

Over the next few weeks, I gathered evidence discreetly. I discovered text messages and emails revealing months of flirtation, secret meetups, and even hotel bookings. Mark had been cheating on me with someone I considered family. My heart felt like it shattered into pieces.

I confronted Mark immediately. He initially denied everything, claiming it was harmless joking. But when I showed him the messages, he admitted to the affair. He said it started as emotional support but “spiraled out of control.”

I also confronted Vanessa. She admitted she knew he was married but claimed she “fell for him” and “didn’t know what to do.” Her lack of genuine remorse left me feeling disgusted and betrayed.

The emotional toll was devastating. I couldn’t sleep, eat, or focus on anything. Every memory of our family vacations, celebrations, and quiet nights at home felt like lies. I realized I could no longer trust Mark or maintain a marriage with him.

After weeks of soul-searching and discussions with close friends, I asked Mark to leave and filed for separation. Some friends said I should forgive him for the sake of the children; others said I did the right thing because betrayal this deep is unforgivable.

Months later, I am slowly rebuilding my life with Emma and Jack, focusing on healing, work, and protecting my children’s emotional well-being. I am learning to trust myself again and creating a life free from deception.

So, AITA for leaving my husband after I found out he was cheating with our family friend?