Chapter 21 - NATHAN’S LETTER
Nathan stopped asking me to come home after I filed.
That was the first useful thing he did.
Then he wrote.
Elise,
I keep trying to find a version of what I did that sounds less deliberate.
Lonely.
Afraid.
Under pressure.
Resentful of Lucio.
Scared of becoming a father.
All of those feelings were real.
None of them booked hotel rooms.
I did.
I told Maren our marriage was over because I wanted her to stay.
I told you the affair was over because I wanted you to stay.
I made two women live inside two different lies so I would not have to lose either reality.
My mother helped hide it because I let her.
When you said I lied at your birthday, I still wanted to explain enough to keep you from leaving.
I am sorry I reached for you.
I am sorry I tried to get past Lucio after you moved away.
I am sorry your birthday became evidence.
You do not have to answer.
I read it twice.
Then put it away.
May you like
No reconciliation.
A truthful apology does not require a romantic reward.
