We sat on a park bench, chatting about our grown children. When the conversation waned, I took out the leather-bound album and rested it across our laps. I turned each page, tears distorting the childlike smiles preserved on black acid-free paper. He remained quiet. At the final page, I asked, “Can we give it one more try?” Without hesitation, he replied, “I’ve thought about it and decided she’s a better fit for my lifestyle.” I closed the album. We hugged goodbye, then I strode away, eyes forward, the sun warming my back. He will be fine. My guilt was discharged.
Jennifer Gippel is an economist and writer who enjoys wandering in the wildish places near her home in Jindabyne, Australia.