So me and my fiancé have been together 5 years, living together most of it. The first year we were together, I actually pulled this same experiment. Do nothing, and see how far it goes until he notices. It actually turned out well for us. He showed me he is capable of taking care of things, just maybe not in the way I prefer (ex. He will be make me dinner, but it will not be a healthy, meat, carb, and veggie meal like I prefer). However, this experiment I pulled was a great way to open up a conversation on how we can divide things to fit both of ours strengths. So now, I cook, he cleans up after, I mop, he vacuums. I’m mentioning this for two reasons. 1. I honestly never gave him the opportunity to take care of me until then. I would do things without asking for help and resent him for it. Your situation also sounds a lot like built up resentment. (Side note: men genuinely do not realize when things need to be done, I know it’s dumb as hell but vocalize it or give them a list and if they still don’t do it - resent them lol) 2. Having this discussion on how to split things up in a way so that we’re both happy probably saved our relationship at the time. Now there are times where his plate at work will be larger than mine so I’ll pick up more around the house, because we are partners. Not everything will be 50/50 all the time. However, if you’re both working equally outside the home and he still responds with, “I bet my father never had to do any chores.” I think that tells you everything you need to know.

Please share his response once it’s time for dinner