AITA for leaving my husband after discovering he had been cheating with my childhood friend?

I (35F) have been married to my husband, Liam (38M), for ten years. We met through mutual friends, connected instantly, and married after two years of dating. We have two children—Ella (7) and Max (5). Our life seemed stable and happy, and Liam appeared devoted, attentive, and trustworthy.

My childhood friend, Hannah (33F), has been part of my life for over 20 years. We shared everything—secrets, birthdays, family vacations, and milestones. I trusted her completely, and she was close to our family.

About a year ago, subtle changes began to appear in Liam’s behavior. He started leaving for “late work meetings,” spending weekends away, and became secretive with his phone. Hannah also began appearing at our house more often, sometimes for extended visits, sometimes for seemingly casual meetings with Liam.

One evening, I returned home unexpectedly and saw Liam and Hannah in the backyard. They were sitting close, laughing and whispering in a way that didn’t feel innocent. My heart sank. I couldn’t believe the betrayal—my husband and my childhood friend, two people I trusted most, were hiding this from me.

Over the next few weeks, I discreetly monitored his phone and emails. I discovered months of flirtatious, intimate messages and photos exchanged between Liam and Hannah. They had been secretly meeting, sending affectionate messages, and even planning private trips—all while pretending to be part of our family.

I confronted Liam immediately. At first, he denied everything, claiming it was innocent joking. But when I showed him the messages and proof, he admitted to having an affair with Hannah for over six months. He claimed it started emotionally and “just happened,” but I couldn’t believe it.

I also confronted Hannah. She admitted she knew he was married but claimed she didn’t intend to hurt me. Her lack of genuine remorse intensified my feelings of betrayal and humiliation.

The emotional toll was devastating. I couldn’t sleep, eat, or focus. Every memory of family vacations, holidays, and quiet nights at home felt tainted. I realized I could no longer trust Liam, and I couldn’t stay in a marriage built on lies and betrayal.

After weeks of reflection and consulting friends, I asked Liam to leave and filed for separation. Some friends suggested forgiveness for the sake of the children, while others agreed that betrayal of this magnitude is unforgivable.

Now, months later, I am slowly rebuilding my life with Ella and Max, 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 discovering he had been cheating with my childhood friend?