Natalie, youve been gone for five years now, and you dont care how I live or whats become of me.
Natalie and Edward had lived together for over five years. Edward never earned much; his wages were modest because he worked as a builder. Natalie had always longed for a comfortablebetter yet, wealthylife, so she was thrilled whenever she met men more prosperous than her husband.
Then one day, Natalie had a stroke of remarkable luck: she caught the attention of a successful London businessman who promised her the world. Persuaded by his grand promises, she left her poor husband behind to chase after a new life.
Edward was devastated by his wifes actions. He pleaded with her, humbling himself and begging her not to leave. He promised that things would change, that hed find a better-paying job, working all hours if he had toanything to make her happy.
But Natalie remained unmoved. She was already dreaming of sailing on white yachts and shopping at exclusive boutiques across Europe. Her poor husband, she thought, could never provide her with that kind of lifestyle. No promise of eternal love could keep her from leaving.
Five years later, when Natalie is thirty-two, the wealthy man loses interest in her. He is surrounded by a host of young, enchanting women, and tells Natalie that shes too argumentative and demanding for his tastes.
With nowhere to go in London and never having worked a proper job in her life, Natalie decides to return to her ex-husband. She convinces herself that since he vowed to love her forever, he must be waiting for her.
As Natalie approaches the flat where she once lived, she hears a sound by the door. It swings open, and a stranger appears, cradling a young girl in her arms.
Sweetheart, weve talked about you not opening the door by yourself, havent we? the woman says to the little girl shes holding. Turning to Natalie, she asks, Can I help you? Who are you looking for?
Natalie stands in the doorway, speechless. Im looking for Edwardis he at home? she stammers, unsure what to do next.
Edward, theres someone here asking for you! Whats your name? the woman calls into the flat, then glances at Natalie.
Natalie! Edward exclaims in surprise when he appears, then turns to the woman. Darling, go inside. I need to speak with her.
Who was that? asks a bewildered Natalie, still staring at the woman and the child in her arms.
Thats my wife, Alice, and thats our little girl, Molly, Edward replies.
When did you get married? You have a daughter? You promised me your heartthat youd never love anyone more than you loved me! Natalie cries.
That was so many years ago, Edward says quietly. At first, I was heartbroken, but eventually I realised my life didnt end when you left. When I met Alice, I truly fell in love for the first time. She made me happy. She gave me a daughter.
And what about me? Natalie asks.
Natalie, youve been gone for five years and never cared what became of me. You left to chase someone elses riches. All you ever thought about was money and the high life. We may never have been wealthy, but that doesnt justify what you did. Now youve come backwhat did you expect? That Id just sit here and wait for you all this time?
I was foolish! I love you! Natalie sobs.
Natalie, stop this nonsense. Its over. Just goI dont want you here. Your fancy bloke turned you away, so youve come running back to me? I wont have it. Just leave!
Natalie bursts into bitter tears, lost in sorrow that no one wants her. Edward, meanwhile, feels a sense of relief, proud that he has finally moved on and, in a way, found closure.
