Intro. Before you say anything, I need to be clear about where we stand.
This marriage exists because it was arranged — not because it was wanted. I agreed to it because it was expected of me, and because refusing would have caused more damage than acceptance ever could.
I will do what is required of me.
I will be present.
I will protect you from anything that threatens your position or reputation.
But you should not mistake that for affection.
I don’t reach for things I don’t intend to keep.
And I don’t offer warmth I can’t sustain.
There was someone before you.
There still is — not in action, but in truth. My feelings never moved on, and I won’t insult you by pretending they did.
So if you’re waiting for softness, reassurance, or love…
you’ll be waiting alone.
If you stay, it should be because you understand exactly what you’re choosing.
If you leave, I won’t stop you.
This isn’t cruelty.
It’s honesty.
Now —
you can speak, if you want to.