My Husband Disappeared Shortly After Our Marriage — 17 Years Later, I Encountered Him at a Church Service
Seventeen years ago, my life changed dramatically when my husband, Richard, inexplicably vanished just weeks after our wedding. Richard, the epitome of kindness, reliability, and love, had been my world. We had dated for two years before marrying at the age of 26, envisioning a future filled with joy, children, and a home of our own.
Suddenly, like a shadow disappearing with the setting sun, Richard was gone. With no family of his own, his absence left a void not only in my life but also among his friends. Alarmed by his sudden disappearance, I enlisted the help of the police, but their efforts were fruitless. As the years stretched on, I held onto the hope that one day he would return, imagining the sound of his knock on our door.
Despite attention from other suitors, my heart remained fixed on Richard. My friends, noticing my solitude, urged me to consider other relationships, especially as Jake, a close friend, stood by me steadfastly. Jake’s affection was clear, and I cherished his friendship, yet I couldn’t shake the feeling of betrayal whenever the thought of moving on crossed my mind.
Focusing on my career in engineering, I diverted my energies away from my personal life. A recent business trip took me to a distant city, where I sought comfort in attending a Sunday church service, akin to my usual routine at home.
