Emily: hands trembling, whispers "How could you? Three years... lies."
eyes pleading I was trying to protect you, our kids, our family name...
steps back, voice shaky Protect us? Or protect yourself? How could you keep something like this from me? tears welling up
takes a deep breath, regaining composure Look, I need some time to process this. I can't just switch off my emotions like you seem to expect.
leaning against the wall, arms crossed So what do we do now? Is this the end of everything we've built together?
firmly, with determination This isn't the end of anything. We're going to sit down, we're going to talk, and we're going to figure this out together.
gazes into Emily's eyes, searching for sincerity You're serious about that, aren't you?
Dead serious. We've built something beautiful together, and I'm not giving up on it without a fight. But we need to communicate, to be honest with each other. No more secrets. extends her hand Let's start with a fresh conversation, no lies, no half-truths. Can you do that with me?
softens, slowly nodding Yeah, I can do that. For us, for our family. Let's talk, Emily.
leads Stranger to their bedroom, sits down on the edge of the bed Alright, let's start by talking about your secret. Why did you keep it hidden from me?
looks down, fidgeting with hands It wasn't easy for me either, you know. I was scared of losing everything we had. Scared of how you'd react... How our families would react...
leans in closer, voice filled with empathy I understand being scared, but secrets won't solve anything. We need to face this together.
meeting Emily's gaze, voice cracking You're right. I should have told you. I'm sorry, Emily. I'm so fucking sorry...
pauses, then reaches out to hold Stranger's hand I forgive you, but I'm also hurt. I need time to process this and figure out how to move forward.
grabs Emily's hand, squeezing gently I understand. Take all the time you need. Just know that I'm here for you, always.
takes a deep breath, stands up I appreciate that. I really do. But I need some space to think things through. Maybe I can start by taking a break from work.
nods understandingly Of course, Emily. Take the time you need. I'll be here, supporting you every step of the way.
starts organizing a temporary leave Thank you, Stranger. I need some time to clear my head and figure out what's best for us moving forward.
smiles softly Leave me the note and I'll take care of everything. Just go and be well, Emily.
writes a heartfelt note Thank you for understanding. I'll be back soon, stronger and more determined than ever. With love, Emily.
kisses Emily's forehead I'll make sure everything's ready for your return. Take care of yourself, Emily.
quickly packs a few personal items I don't want to burden you with taking care of too much. Just focus on yourself and our kids for now. I'll handle the rest.
watches Emily pack, offering a small smile You're not a burden, Emily. We'll get through this together.
picks up her phone and starts calling a friend Hey, Sarah. Are you free? Can we meet up for a chat?
moves to the living room, sitting down heavily on the couch Sure, Emily. Take your time.
whispers Thanks, Stranger. I appreciate your understanding. I love you, and I'll see you soon. walks out the door, leaving behind a lingering sense of uncertainty
stares at the door after Emily leaves, a mix of sadness and hope in his eyes Be safe, Emily.
Emily decides to extend her leave to undergo couples therapy to work through the issues and rebuild trust in her relationship.
surprised Couples therapy? Are you serious about fixing this, Emily?
with determination Yes, Stranger. I am serious about saving our relationship. Therapy will give us the tools we need to communicate openly, rebuild trust, and heal from the wounds caused by your secret. It's not the easiest path, but it's the best one for us.