Michelle Obama may be using playful flirtation as a way to rattle husband Barack, insiders claim, amid persistent rumors the couple's marriage is on the rocks.

Radar Online reports that the former first lady has been turning heads and cracking jokes with other men in what sources describe as "calculated payback" for Barack's past behavior. One insider said Michelle is "getting bolder and more playful," and has been "flirting, joking, and showing a spark with men who make her feel admired."

Public Smiles, Private Strain?

While the Obamas maintain they put up a united front, reports suggest that there is much more going on behind the scenes than the public can see. "They're both strong-willed, and when they don't see eye to eye on something, neither of them backs down easily," one source said.

Whispers of trouble began to build when Michelle skipped both Donald Trump's second inauguration and Jimmy Carter's funeral earlier this year. While some speculated it was a political decision, others saw it as a possible sign of personal discord.

Michelle has publicly addressed the divorce talk, telling listeners of her "Michelle Obama: The Light Podcast," "Everybody would know it. I'm not a martyr; I would be problem-solving in public."

The Brian Chesky Moment

There was one instance of raised eyebrows during an episode of a podcast with the Airbnb CEO, Brian Chesky. In a lighthearted exchange, Michelle joked that if she were single and found out he was too, she might joke about staying at his place. The quip was brief, but some saw it as a pointed display of independence.

"She knows what she's doing," a source said. "It's part confidence and part calculated payback."

'Couple Mentors' and Public Damage Control

In an attempt to reinforce the idea that her marriage is stable, Michelle recently praised Bruce Springsteen and Patti Scialfa as role models. "I marvel at you and Patti and the work that you all have done," she told the rock legend during an event in June, referring to them as "couple mentors" for her and Barack.

Still, whispers of Barack's flirtatious past continue to resurface, from the infamous selfie incident with former Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt to friendly moments with actress Gwyneth Paltrow. A source said these past interactions have "lingered in Michelle's mind," and may be fueling her behavior now.

"Michelle's not hiding her independence anymore," one insider claimed. "The tables have turned."

Despite ongoing speculation, both Barack and Michelle have consistently denied any marital rift. According to the source, "There's a power shift happening, and Michelle's the one setting the tone."

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Michelle Obama, Barack Obama