She never made a scene, never held anything against me; she was always gentle and kind.
But the problem was still therethere was no love.
Every morning, I woke up thinking about leaving.
I would picture myself meeting a woman I could truly love.
But I could never have guessed how unpredictably fate would turn things around.
With Sophie, everything was easy.
She managed the house with complete care, and, to top it off, she was strikingly beautiful.
My mates envied me, baffled as to how Id gotten so lucky with my wife.
Honestly, I didnt even know what Id done to deserve her devotion.
Im an ordinary bloke, nothing remarkable about me.
Yet somehow, she loved me…
How could that be?
Her unwavering love and commitment weighed constantly on my mind.
What tormented me most was the thought that, if I left, someone else would take my place.
Somebody richer, better looking, more successful.
Whenever I pictured her with another man, I felt like I was losing my mind.
She was mine, even if Id never loved her.
That feeling of possessiveness was stronger than logic.
But can you really spend your life with someone you dont love?
I thought I could bear it, but I was wrong.
Tomorrow, Ill come clean, I decided, getting into bed.
In the morning, over breakfast, I mustered up the courage.
Sophie, have a seat.
I need to talk.
Of course, Im listening, love.
Imagine we get a divorce.
I move out, we live on our own
Sophie laughed softly.
What a peculiar thing to say!
Is this a joke?
Please, let me finish.
Its not a game.
All right, Ill play along.
And then?
Tell me honestly: if I were to leave, would you find someone else?
Edward, whats gotten into you?
Why are you even thinking of leaving?
Because I dont love you and never have.
What?
You must be joking.
I dont understand.
I want to go, but the thought of you with another man drives me mad.
Sophie was quiet for a bit, then answered calmly,
I wont find anyone better than you, so dont fret.
Go, I wont be with anyone else.
Do you promise?
Of course I do, Sophie said.
But, where am I to go?
Youve nowhere?
No.
Weve been together all my life.
I suppose Ill have to stay nearby, I replied morosely.
Dont worry, said Sophie.
After the divorce, well swap this flat for two smaller ones.
Really?
I didnt expect youd help me like this.
Why are you being so generous?
Because I love you.
When you love someone, you cant force them to stay.
A few months went by and the divorce went through.
Shortly after, I heard that Sophie hadnt kept her word.
Shed met someone new, and the flats shed got from her gran shed never intended to split.
I was left with nothing.
How am I supposed to trust women now?
I havent a clue.
What do you make of Edwards conduct?
Looking back, I realise I valued possession over love itself, and in the end, I lost both.
