Matthew and I appeared to be the perfect match. Our families lived next to each other and we started out together in preschool, continuing through the same school years.
We were constantly by each other’s side, lending support in every situation. He was there for me whenever I needed him and I tried to reciprocate. If classmates mocked me, he stood up for me. Exam preparations were always a shared task. When prom came, he asked me to be his date.
Everyone thought we would get married. We used to joke about it, but in the end, that’s what happened. Love grew between us during high school. After college, Matthew popped the question: “Will you marry me?” I said “yes” right away.
I felt like nothing could go wrong; everything seemed perfect. We moved to a new house in our old neighborhood. As our fifth anniversary neared, I was intent on getting Matthew a special present.
I told him I’d be at work, but in reality, I took the day off to pick up a watch for him from far across town. Carrying the gift, I cheerfully made my way home, expecting Matthew to be away at work.
Unlocking the door, I halted. He was having a phone conversation in the living room. Upon hearing my name, I quietly hid behind the door. My guess was that he was planning a surprise.
Then he said: “Don’t worry! She walked right INTO MY TRAP back in high school.” My heartbeat exploded with anxiety. He added: “My plan is about to work. I’ve been planning this ever SINCE we were teenagers.”
After his next words, I left crying, shocked. I couldn’t comprehend what had just taken place. It all felt like a nightmare.
(What dark reality was Matthew truly hiding behind his words? Click “Next Page” to continue reading…)
