I always thought we had a model family, but then I accidentally discovered some documents belonging to my wife. It turned out I didn’t even know who I had been living with all these years. Maria had shamelessly lied to me and taken advantage of my trust.

When I asked her about the documents, she began to justify herself and make up ridiculous excuses. She didn’t even have the courage to honestly admit what was going on. And now, I don’t know what to do.

Until recently, I thought I was smart and perceptive enough, but it turned out I had no control over what was happening in my own family. After my divorce from my first wife, I never imagined I would start a new relationship. But everything changed when I met Masha.

She brought color and emotion into my life. I simply fell in love at first sight, and there was nothing I could do about it. Her sincere emotions and carefree spirit reminded me of the joys of life.

It all started simply. I helped her at work, and sometimes we had coffee together during breaks. A month later, we decided to move in together because our relationship was developing quickly. She lit up whenever I gave her money for new dresses or let her choose our travel destinations. In those moments, she gave me even more love.

But then, that was no longer enough for her.

One day, I accidentally found some documents Masha had hidden at the top of the closet. It was a purchase contract for an apartment in another city.

The signature was unmistakably Maria’s. It was very distinct—I couldn’t be wrong.

— Don’t you have anything to explain? I asked.

Masha looked at me calmly, as if nothing had happened.

— I need to think about my own security, she said.

— What security? You’re my legal wife. I provide everything for you. What else do you need?

— I need to be sure I won’t end up on the street.

That hurt me deeply. I gave her everything without regret. Why do something like this behind my back?

— So you don’t trust me? I asked.

— And why should I? I have no guarantee you won’t throw me out. Everything belongs to you!

The conversation ended in a huge fight. I realized we didn’t even have a basic understanding of each other. Masha saw me as a wallet, not as a man she loved.

— I don’t want to end up on the street! she said in her defense.

After that conflict, I saw our life in a completely different light. Did I really do everything wrong? When did we lose our connection? Where did our love go?