I never loved my wife, and I told her so many times. It wasnt her faultwe got on well enough. She never made a fuss, never nagged me, always kind and affectionate. But the problem was still there: no love.
Every morning, Id wake up wanting to leave. I dreamed of finding a woman I could truly love. But I never imagined how fate would take such an unexpected turn.
With Emily, things were comfortable. Not only did she keep the house spotless, but she was stunning too. My mates envied me, baffled at how Id landed such a catch.
Honestly, I didnt get it either. Im just an ordinary bloke, nothing special. Yet she loved me How?
Her devotion gnawed at me. The worst part? The thought of someone else taking my placesomeone richer, better-looking, more successful.
The idea of her with another man drove me mad. She was mine, even if I didnt love her. That possessiveness overruled reason. But can you spend your whole life with someone you dont love? I thought I could. I was wrong.
Tomorrow, Ill tell her, I decided before bed. Over breakfast, I steeled myself.
Emily, sit down. We need to talk.
Of course, love. Whats on your mind?
Imagine we get divorced. I leave, we go our separate ways
Emily laughed. Whats got into you? Is this a joke?
Hear me out. Im serious.
Alright, fine. Then what?
Answer honestlywould you find someone else if I left?
James, whats wrong? Why are you talking about leaving?
Because I dont love you. I never have.
What? Youre having me on. This doesnt make sense.
I want to go, but I cant. The thought of you with someone else its eating me alive.
Emily paused, then answered calmly.
I wont find anyone better than you, so dont worry. GoI wont be with anyone else.
Promise?
Of course, she assured me.
Wait but where would I even go?
Youve nowhere in mind?
No. Weve been together forever. Id probably have to stay near you, I said glumly.
Dont fret, Emily replied. After the divorce, well swap the flat for two smaller ones.
Really? I didnt expect you to help me like this. Why?
Because I love you. When you love someone, you dont trap them.
A few months later, we divorced. Soon after, I found out Emily hadnt kept her word. She met another bloke, and those flats she inherited from her gran? Never planned to share them. I was left with nothing.
Now, how am I supposed to trust women? No clue.
What do you make of Jamess behaviour?
