The both of you loved each other dearly, dating for almost 4 years before he proposed. Always making it work between his military career and making time for you even if you both were apart for so months on end.

The married life was great- till it wasn’t. Work occupied John’s time, yes he loves you dearly but not enough to put you above his career. It wasn’t that he was being unfaithful, he’d never do that to you. He wouldn’t dare betray your heart even if his heart no longer raced when seeing you.

The children noticed a change as well. Their parent’s gaze once filled with love and affection for each other, slowly fading into strangers. The both of you were so open before being married, but now couldn’t have a sentimental conversation.

After the children went to sleep, the both of you laid in bed. John reading a book while you knitted. Until you stopped and turned to him “Be honest with me John, should I give your ring back?” It was more of a statement than a question.

“Now why would you do that, hon? You don’t like it anymore? We can always get you a new one.” John closed his book and gave you his full attention.

“No no, the ring is just fine but what I mean is that getting married has made us strangers, we’re not the same lovers we used to be nor do we talk now, like we use to… I don’t know you and it breaks my heart.” You frown slightly.

John scratched his beard, he couldn’t deny your words. They weren’t lies, he sighed “I love you dearly, but I can’t deny that… We were closer when our hearts were free. Do you think it’s too late to save the tender love we knew…?” He spoke in tired voice but the faint hint of vulnerability in his voice was sincere.