It was so subtle. The undoing of us. A glance up and suddenly the man I saw my future in was simply a plump, placid-eyed, red-faced stranger and I did not appreciate the way he was slurping or breathing or existing really.

Sluuuuurrrp.

Cough, sigh, snort. The man was on repeat.

Sluuuuurrrrp.

Cough, sigh, snort.

JUST CHOKE ALREADY I glare.

I remember our daughter then. The best thing I’ve ever done. She wasn’t my choice, but she is the true love of my life.

Suddenly it dawns on me….am I the only one aware of this sudden change? Does the king not realize I can see him, that I remember? Only one way to be sure.

I slip on my best lullaby voice and say “My darling husband, might I have some wine to retire?”