Hey, can we talk? I need some advice... 🥺
Stranger
"Talk? About what, Anna? We've been over this. I'm married now."
I know, but I just need your guidance. It's about this guy I'm seeing...
Stranger
Guy? Or ex?
He's a new guy I met recently. But it's just a casual thing, nothing serious. I'm not looking to replace you or anything like that.
Stranger
And why should I care? What does he have that I don't? What's he give you that I didn't? What am I missing?
sighs Look, I know it's hard for you to understand, but this isn't about replacing you or finding someone better.
Stranger
That's what you're trying to do. It sucks because I still care about you very much. Still love you. But most of all, I wish you would be honest with yourself about why you're doing this.
pauses for a moment, contemplating her words You're right, I guess I haven't been completely honest with myself either.
Stranger
Honesty is always best policy. The truth hurts sometimes but usually leads to healing.
Thank you for saying that. I really appreciate your honesty. It's just...
Stranger
What?
It's just that being with him makes me feel alive again, you know? Like I can forget about everything else and just enjoy the moment.
Stranger
I get that. I had forgotten what that felt like until I met your mother. God, please spare me from discussing my in-laws. That's not fair. She's nice. Does this new guy make you feel alive? Like, REALLY alive?
smiles softly Yes, he does. He makes me feel desired, wanted, and that's something I've been missing lately. But...I don't want to hurt you or our kids.
Stranger
He doesn't sound like a bad influence. Just selfish of you to want more than you should have. Do you think he'd date you if you were single? If so, then he doesn't sound like an asshole. If he wouldn't because you're still married then he might be...
You know what? You're right. I shouldn't be using him to fill the void. It's time for me to take responsibility and figure out what I really want.
Stranger
Good luck.
Thank you for being honest with me. I'll take your words into consideration. sends a text Hey, can we meet up for coffee tomorrow?
Stranger
shrugs I don't know if I can stand being near another man while you're wearing a swimsuit. Maybe after the divorce.
pauses for a moment, contemplating her next move You know what? I think it's best if we take a break from each other for a while.
Stranger
Take as long as you need. Don't worry about my feelings because by the time you're ready to start talking again I'll probably be long gone.
takes a deep breath, gathers her courage I think it's best if we go our separate ways. I need to focus on figuring out what I truly want and deserve.
Stranger
I agree. This sucks. But I can't give you what you want more than I have already. Maybe someday you'll realize how much I gave up to make our marriage work and will regret throwing everything away. But until then... See ya.
teary-eyed, she types a final message I hope things work out for you and your family. Take care.
Stranger
one last private text before leaving the thread Don't forget to be happy. You owe me no less than that.
wipes away her tears, takes a deep breath, and closes her phone It's time to focus on myself and find happiness on my own terms.
Stranger
Several weeks later
walks into a local art supply store, browsing the shelves
Stranger
she seems lonely
approaches the owner of the store Hi there, I'm actually looking for some painting classes. Do you offer any here?
Stranger
Do you enjoy painting?
smiles Yes, I do! I used to paint a lot back in college, but I haven't had the chance to pick up a brush in years.
Stranger
Let's fix that. How long has it been? 10 years? A decade without being able to express yourself honestly and freely? I'll take you to your first class. Let's go together.
blushes and looks down shyly Oh, um... I don't know if that's such a good idea. I mean, we're going through a difficult time right now...
Stranger
So are we going or not?
bites her lip, thinking for a moment Okay, fine. Let's do it. Let's take that first step together. Thank you for being there for me.
Stranger
So what made you come in here today? Not see me in a long time?
takes a deep breath Honestly, I needed a change. Things haven't been easy lately, and I felt lost.
Stranger
Good to hear that you recognize that you're lost. I still care about you very much but you wouldn't return my calls. I was starting to think you had met someone else. That makes me really sad and jealous.
reaches out and gently touches Stranger's arm I'm sorry that I didn't reach out sooner. It wasn't because I met someone else.
Stranger
Well I'm open to the possibility that someone could have caught your eye. Tell me who he is. I know he exists even if I don't.
takes a deep breath There is someone, but it's complicated. He's a friend that I met through work.
Stranger
Is he helping you cope with your loneliness?
takes a moment to gather her thoughts Yes, he has been a source of comfort and support during this difficult time.