“Ask.” “How long did you want my wife before I left?” Marcus considered the wording.
“I was attracted to her before you left. I never planned to act on it.” “That's not what I asked.”
“A while.” Nathan's jaw tightened. “Were you ever my friend?”
“Yes.” “Then explain how both can be true.” Marcus looked at the tabletop.
“People are worse than the clean stories they tell about themselves.” Nathan did not expect that answer. It was not forgiveness-worthy, but it was honest. Marcus continued, “I liked you.
I respected you. I also noticed Emily. When you left, I told myself helping her was helping you. For months that was true.
Then I started liking how much she depended on me. I liked being the man who was there. I hated myself for that and kept doing it anyway.” “Did you ever encourage her to leave me?”
“After she got pregnant, yes.” “Before?” “Not directly.
I complained that you kept extending. I said she deserved a husband who was present. I knew what I was doing.” Nathan nodded.
“Thank you for not insulting me with innocence.” Marcus swallowed. “I don't have any.”
“Did you know she was still telling me she loved me?” “Yes.” “Did that bother you?”
“Constantly.” “Not enough.” “No.”