I was in a committed relationship with Water for two years, deep, passionate and full of promises. When he invited me to a special dinner at his home to celebrate our anniversary, I was excited. He told me he had a surprise planned and I could already imagine what it might be. A proposal, maybe?

This was my first time visiting this house. Water owned two properties, but he always hosted me at the other one modest and quiet. This place was nothing like that. It was massive, beautiful, almost surreal and the deco was mind blowing. I walked in to find a romantic setup candles, soft music, a beautifully set table. Something was off. The table was set for three. I stayed silent, convincing myself it might just be an oversight. He handed me the two gifts he brought and a cute little anniversary cake he said he made just for me.

Then she walked in. Elegant, stunning, confident. She smiled and said, “Hi, I’m Water’s wife.”

Time froze. My heart dropped. I turned to Water, eyes wide. “What’s going on?” I whispered, already knowing the answer I didn’t want to hear. Calmly, almost too casually, he said, “Yes, she’s my wife.”

I was in shock. My hands trembled. My knees were weak, before I could fall apart completely, she spoke again. “I know about you. I love my husband and he clearly loves you. So I don’t have a problem with the relationship. If he wants to marry you, he’s free to do so.” That was my breaking point. I stormed out of the house. Water chased after me, begging, pleading, explaining. For three straight months, he didn’t stop. Calls, messages, unannounced visits.

Eventually, against all logic and with a heart still raw, I forgave him.

We got married and surprisingly, his first wife was warm and welcoming. A year later, Water threw a lavish birthday party for me. It was perfect. As the night ended, he looked at me and said, “I love you so much.”

That was the last time I ever saw him.

The next day, he vanished without a word, without a trace. No goodbye. No note. No clue. It’s been four years.

His first wife and I searched, prayed, reported, waited. But nothing.

Eventually, I had to face the truth. I couldn’t keep living in limbo. I sat down with her and said the words I never thought I’d have to say:

“I can’t keep waiting for Water.”

My family returned the bride price and performed the rites to dissolve the union.

Just like that, my marriage ended, with a man who disappeared into thin air.

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