I never loved my wife, and I told her so many times.
It wasnt her faultwe lived quite comfortably. She never made a scene, never reproached me for anything; she was always kind and affectionate. But the problem remained: there was no love.
Every morning, I woke with the urge to leave. I dreamed of finding a woman I could truly love. Yet I never imagined fate would twist so unexpectedly.
With Evelyn, I felt at ease. Not only did she keep the house immaculate, but she was dazzling too. My friends envied me, baffled by how Id been so lucky with my wife.
I didnt even understand what Id done to deserve her love. Im an ordinary man, nothing special to set me apart. And still, she loved me How was that possible?
Her devotion haunted me. What tormented me most was the thought that if I left, another man would take my placesomeone richer, handsomer, more successful.
The idea of her with another man drove me mad. She was mine, even if Id never loved her. That possessive feeling overpowered reason. But can you spend a lifetime with someone you dont love? I thought I could. I was wrong.
*Tomorrow, Ill tell her everything*, I decided as I went to bed. Over breakfast the next morning, I gathered my courage.
“Evelyn, sit down. We need to talk.”
“Of course, darling. Im listening.”
“Imagine we divorce. I leave, and we live apart”
Evelyn laughed. “What a strange thought! Is this a game?”
“Hear me out. This is serious.”
“Alright, Im imagining it. Then what?”
“Answer truthfullyif I left, would you find someone else?”
“Oliver, whats gotten into you? Why are you thinking of leaving?”
“Because I dont love you. I never have.”
“What? Are you joking? I dont understand.”
“I want to go, but I cant. The idea of you with another man wont leave me alone.”
Evelyn paused, then replied calmly, “I wont find anyone better than you, so dont worry. GoI wont be with anyone else.”
“You promise?”
“Of course,” Evelyn assured me.
“Wait but where would I even go?”
“You dont have anywhere?”
“No, weve been together all our lives. Id probably have to stay near you,” I said miserably.
“Dont worry,” Evelyn replied. “After the divorce, well trade the flat for two smaller ones.”
“Really? I never expected you to help me like this. Why would you?”
“Because I love you. When you love someone, you cant keep them against their will.”
Months passed, and we divorced. Soon after, I learned Evelyn hadnt kept her promise. She found another man, and the flats she inherited from her grandmother? Shed never intended to share them. I was left with nothing.
How can I trust women now? Ive no idea.
What do you make of Olivers behaviour?
