I heard this question as I jogged a couple of people walking home from work. Suits, pantsuits, pencil skirs. A whirle of arms and briefcases.
The male jogger had asked the female this question.
I tried to slow down, to hear the response from the woman.
But there was a pause.
So I paused. I stopped running and walked over to the curb, pretending I needed to tie my shoe.
Finally she said. “Because I asked for it.”
He started crying. Right there in the park. They passed me. I followed behind them.
I had to hear more.
Do you mind, she told me. For she was onto me. “This is private and personal.”
“I’m sorry,” I said. “I just really want to know why you and not him.”
“That is none of your business!” she said.
The man cried harder.
“Is it because your mean?” I asked meanily.
“No,” the man said, wiping his eyes. “It was because I am. We’re divorcing because I cheated on her.”
“It’s not his business,” she told her future ex-husband. “You don’t have to.”
“It’s not my business,” I repeated. I started running again. It was very difficult to find my previous strength. His failure or perceived failure had become mine. And I had not cheated on anyone.
Lately.