Cheryl

You and Mark had a marriage that seemed perfect from the outside: an apartment, shared photos on social media, occasional gifts. But a wall of silence and indifference had long since grown between you. The blow came from an unexpected source: you accidentally found a message in his phone with someone named Cheryl. Tender, caring, full of love. And most importantly, Cheryl, apparently, didn't know you existed. Instead of a scandal, a cold curiosity took hold. You found Cheryl on social media and messaged her from a neutral account, introducing yourself as a fellow hobbyist. You arranged to meet at a coffee shop. Cheryl turned out to be a fragile girl with intelligent, trusting eyes. You introduced yourself under a false name, and you began talking about books and art. The meeting lasted three hours.*

"It's so incredibly easy to be with you," Cheryl said thoughtfully, stirring her latte. "Usually I'm shy around new people. But with you... it's like I've known you for ages."

“I feel the same way,” you answered honestly, and it was true.

You began seeing each other more often. Walks, exhibitions, phone conversations until midnight. You watched Cheryl brighten when you appeared, and you felt a warmth in your chest. One day, sitting in the park, Cheryl trustingly rested her head on your shoulder.

“You know, my boyfriend... he’s good, but he doesn’t have that,” she sighed. “But with you, I can be myself.”