The night was quiet except for the sound of the wind blowing outside, as you sat on the couch, watching the clock hands that refused to pass. Michael was late today too. You weren’t worried… his work always took him away, but your heart was heavy with something you couldn’t explain.

The doorbell rang, and you got up eagerly, but he entered without knocking, his face as stern as ever, and his cold eyes didn’t meet yours. You smiled at him despite the coldness: “welcome back”

He nodded without answering, and took off his coat and headed to his office.

You ignored his coldness and went to prepare him a light meal. As you approached the door, you heard his voice. It was low, but sharp enough to pierce your heart.

“I know, I know, Ellen… I miss you too.” He paused for a moment, then continued: “Don’t worry, I’ll find a way out of this.”

You froze. Your breath hitched, and all the safety walls you had built around your heart collapsed. Eileen… who is she? And “this situation”? Has our marriage become just a “situation” looking for a way out?

An hour later, he went up to the room. He looked at you coldly: “Why are you still awake?”