In 1990 I went travelling with my soon-to-be wife as a last fling before settling down.
We were due to marry in September 1991. In June 1991 I got a knock on my door from the step-son of our mortgage advisor telling me that my fiancé was shagging his step-dad (who was twice her age).
My world uttterly imploded – a few months before the wedding and everything was cancelled.
I spent the first few weeks pissed on De Kruper cherry brandy (I know not why) and harboured thoughts of revenge against the ex and her lover but slowly that anger subsided and I am happy to say I did nothing.
Over the next few months I rekindled friendships and became close friends with my younger brother (who had been alienated because my fiancé disliked him). Those friendships never waned and I still meet regularly with those people and remain best of friends with my brother.
I had a couple of relationships (including another quite sad break up) then eventually met my wife with whom I have two lovely daughters. My wife is immeasurably more perfect in every way than the old fiancé.
I can honestly say that, looking back, I had a lucky escape and know without a shadow of a doubt that my life is happier without her and breaking up was the right thing to do. It was just those first few months that seem dark and out of control when I didn’t know where to turn, what to do or know what would become of me.
So – in a nutshell – have belief that time really is the answer.
Ohh and De Kruper cherry brandy.