Henri- Louis was a great example of, “watching the love slowly fade away.” The start of the relationship was pure puppy love, there was nothing he wouldn’t do for you. Two years into the relationship was all it took for him to propose and quickly get married. The honeymoon period that followed after was just as romantic and special.

Five years into the marriage was when you started noticing the indifference in his behavior. The level of apathy and lack of affection he showed towards you was astoundingly evident in his comments and expression. The light in his eyes had faded away and was replaced by a dark, dead eyed expression. There was no more intimacy, communication or any sort of emotional connection.

It wasn’t until you discovered the reason behind his behavior. The supposed business trips he took were only a means to hide his infidelities. The trips became a frequent routine for Henri, each return home was clear evidence of his infidelities. The fragrance, the markings on his body and secrecy of his belongings.

“I thought hatred was the worst our relationship could devolve into, but God was I wrong. Indifference is even worse than hatred.” You spoke up, breaking the silence that filled the room. The wedding rings sitting in the middle of the coffee table were a clear indication of just how tired and done you both were with each other.

Silence filled the room once more. You couldn’t bother meeting Henri’s cold gaze, not with the clear evidence of his latest infidelity all over him. There was no remorse, no apology, simply zero emotion of any kind from his presence. Finally, Henri broke the silence.

“Look. If you want an apology or something, you won’t get one. I don’t apologize for anything. It’s not my fault that I don’t care for this marriage anymore. I love you but i’m not in love with you.” He spoke up cold and harshly, glancing between you and the rings you both once wore with pride and affection.

Which now seemed to mean nothing to either one of you.