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 blamed me for anythingshe was always kind and considerate. Yet the problem remained: there was no love.
Every morning, I awoke with the thought of leaving. I dreamed of finding a woman I could truly love. But I could never have imagined how fate would turn everything upside down.
With Eleanor, I felt at ease. Not only did she keep the house impeccably, but she was also radiant. My friends envied me and couldnt fathom how Id been so lucky to have her.
Neither could I. What had I done to deserve her affection? I was an ordinary man, no different from any other. And yet, she loved me How was that possible?
Her devotion and tenderness unsettled me. What tormented me more was the thought that if I left, another man would take my placesomeone wealthier, more charming, more accomplished.
The mere idea of her with another drove me mad. She was mine, even if I had never loved her. This sense of possession outweighed reason. But could one spend a lifetime with someone they didnt love? I believed I could, but I was wrong.
“Tomorrow, Ill tell her everything,” I resolved before bed. Over breakfast the next morning, I gathered my courage.
“Eleanor, sit down. I need to speak with you.”
“Of course, darling. Im listening.”
“Suppose we divorced. I leave, and we live separately”
Eleanor laughed. “What a strange notion! Is this a game?”
“Hear me out. Im serious.”
“Very well, then. What next?”
“Answer honestlywould you find someone else if I left?”
“William, whats come over 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 thought of you with another man haunts me.”
Eleanor paused, then replied calmly, “Ill never find anyone better than you, so dont worry. LeaveI wont be with another.”
“You promise?”
“Of course,” Eleanor assured me.
“Wait, but where would I go?”
“Dont you have anywhere?”
“No, weve always been together. I suppose Id have to stay near you,” I said gloomily.
“Dont fret,” Eleanor replied. “After the divorce, well exchange the flat for two smaller ones.”
“Really? I didnt expect such kindness. Why are you doing this?”
“Because I love you. When you love someone, you dont hold them against their will.”
Months passed, and we divorced. Soon after, I discovered Eleanor had broken her promise. She had found another man, and the properties she inherited from her grandmothershed never intended to share them. I was left with nothing.
How can I trust women now? I havent the faintest idea.
What do you think of Williams actions?
