The longer I looked at the list, the clearer the problem became.
Callum’s arrangement could only function if the parts of his life that benefited him remained untouched.
He expected the stability of marriage without accepting its responsibilities.
At the bottom of the page, I wrote a single question.
What does Callum actually believe will remain unchanged?
***
By Sunday evening, I understood the answer.
Everything that made his own life comfortable.
Kieran curled up beside me on the sofa while we watched a cartoon.
“Daddy’s coming back tomorrow, right?”
“He’s coming to spend time with you tomorrow.”
Kieran looked up.
“So he’s coming home?”
I looked into his hopeful little face.
For once, I had no simple answer.
“I suppose we’ll see, sweetheart.”
***
Later that night, after Kieran had fallen asleep, I reviewed our household finances and began reading about separation.
I wanted to understand my options before making any major decisions.
I didn’t transfer money.
I didn’t change the locks.
And I didn’t interfere with Callum’s belongings.
I simply wanted to know where I stood.
Just before bedtime, my phone rang.
Callum.
I watched his name appear on the screen and let it ring several times before answering.
“How’s Kieran?” he asked.
