Re| Letter to my wife

I woke up late for work and as any man in the winter season, I did not take a shower. Poured the whole bottle of cologne on me to cover the stench, wiped my leather shoes with tissue paper I stumbled on my trousers’ pocket, rushed to the bus stop and as I waited for one, a lady smartly dressed not to impress but be respected walked towards me and stood next to me… she withstood my cologne and also whispered to my ear “You have something in your hair” while stretching to remove it… to cut the long story short, that lady was the one for me and after we got married my life changed for the best.

Seven years of happiness after our vows and now you do not call to find out where and why I am running late, ask how my day was, help me with my folder upon my arrival and take my coat like you used to.

I heat the food while you watch Alejandro from work, I help the kids with homework because mommy does not want to be bothered. Njeri our house help helps with washing the kids and now she takes my coat upon my arrival. On Saturday she found me crying in the car, yes I cry too, the bank was placed under receivership and I did not know what will be next for my family and the company I have built with blood and tears… she asked to come in the car and listened as she told me everything will be alright. That was you a year back, asking what is wrong and encouraging me in the ways that only you know how to.

Juma, the guy I told you we make jokes at each other asked me “Kwani umeachwa…?” (Are you divorced?), reason being my shirt was not ironed. I laughed it off but it hurt in a way. I want to go out late on a weekday with my boys but I am afraid homework and bed time will not be looked at.

Have you wondered why I have become okay with all you are doing, the late night parties with your girlfriends and the Chamas (women self-help groups) you have to attend on the weekend? Because Njeri is now carrying my child. In three months it will start showing just like her new house is almost paid for. Her car is at the port to be cleared of duty and my illegitimate son/daughter already has an insurance cover and a bank under its name.

I feel awful but again, I am just a man who needed attention and love but got it out there, away from home. I know you will find out sooner or later but there is nothing that you will be left to do but accept and explain to Candice and Remy why they have a brother/sister who you are not a biological mother to. I loved you but now my heart is elsewhere, it is home since that is where the heart is.

Regards

Your future husband