My Parent's Reconciliation Vacation (excerpt from Proverbial Woman), Part VIII

And I’ve realized no one can take the place of my husband, the man I fell in love with nineteen years ago. I made the mistake of thinking I could find an earlier version of you in someone else. He started as someone who would give me attention and flowers, just as you did in the past. But you…you knew to send Baby-Pink roses, my favorite. And only you know how I liked my bath drawn. And when to leave me to myself when I'm having a not-so-good day.”

“I understand,” he cautiously asserted, as she paused before continuing.

“Now, I’m not saying he didn’t give me enough of the attention I believe I so rightfully deserves. But it’s just that when it is coming from the one you’ve endured love with, it just feels different. With you I’ve never once felt as much as an object, as I did a woman who is someone’s wife and mother. I just wanted to feel all those things again, together, at the same time. But. Just like any other woman who would say this to the man she loves – it just don’t feel as good without the one who has been there with you through it all. There is a comforting kind of intimacy that comes from sharing the journey.”

“Rose…” he tenderly murmured, as he searched his heart.

“Yes.” she answered, staring into his eyes.
“I could never imagine taking you for granted. Though I know in my heart I should’ve been there more times than I was, I really lost focus of what really mattered most. If my heart has failed in showing you that I was wrong for not being there for you, then you should know that I’m very sorry as well.

I’ve been such a fool. You’ve given two beautiful daughters. Each time when I saw you hold each one for the first time, I fell in love with all over again. Just like when we first met. And now, even after all these years, and what has happen between us. I’m still in love with you.

I would rather choose you than to be with anyone else, even if it means starting over. I know nothing stays the same. And I also know if what we have is true love, then it is worth enduring. Those are the marriages that last.” He added.

Momentarily peering down at her drink as her thoughts swayed back and forth. Slowly lifting her head as a provoking thought subtly pricked her curiosity. In a brief moment of chance their eyes interlocked, as she began to speak.

“Enduring…”she surprisingly repeated.

“Yes, enduring…” he remarked, in a more sobering tone.