My wife always bosses me around

I'm not suggesting that she should be obeying me like a slave. All I'm asking of her is to be a bit more reasonable and respect me. We have been married for three years. Funnily, she acts all submissive in front of my parents and earns brownie points for being such a good wife! But when we are alone, she unleashes her dominating act. What do I do?
- Jugal

Illustration/ Satish Acharya

Dear Jugal,
You have allowed her to behave like this all this while, so why are you complaining now? You have been married for three years and she has assumed that she has the upperhand in the relationship. Suddenly you now feel life is a big mess. Why did you let her do this to you? To say that you love her is not a reason. If you love her, lead her to the right path. If she'll not listen and continue hurting you, then you have to make a choice. She sure is a smart cookie in playing her roles. In front of your folks, she gets all submissive. So no will believe your sob story about her. You alone can tackle the mess you find in. Knock sense into her head and tell her that in a marriage both partners are equal.