My Dearest Laura,
It kills me to have to write this letter, but I feel like I’m out of options. We’ve had an incredible decade together, full of laughs and love. We’ve traveled the world, and seen things most people have never seen. And every time I look into our children’s eyes, my heart grows twice in size. Just like their favorite bedtime story. But our communication has completely fallen apart.
When I proposed to “Galaxy Girl” that dewy April evening so many years ago, I was too young and arrogant to see the heartbreak we would go through together. I was blinded by the midnight missions, and the Sunday picnics into the stratosphere.
Back then, I knew no one could love you more than I could, and our relationship felt so important, you know? I think you can admit now how much you, as a burgeoning superhero, needed a rock to lean. I was ecstatic to be the one you chose for the job. It’s a decision I would make all over again. But lately, Laura… Lately, you have just not been here at all, mentally or physically. I understand the importance of your work, but our home life is just as important to me and the kids. When you disappear for hours or days, they’re confused. They’ll be old enough to understand one day, and when that day comes we can discuss it as a family. We explain why things happened the way they did. But until then, the only thing they understand is they don’t have a full-time mommy.
I have tried to discuss my feelings with you in person, but something always comes up. If it’s not evil scientists concocting mind-control potions or Zanos attacking downtown again, it’s your mother seeking revenge for you foiling her world domination plans last summer. At the end of the day, the layoffs at my accounting firm or our kids’ Track Day will never capture your attention like an industrial fire will. I can understand and accept it, but I’m unable to live with it anymore. This doesn’t mean I don’t love you, Laura. And it doesn’t mean I don’t need you. It simply means the world needs you more.
With Love,
Stan
P.S. I’m at my brother’s with the kids. Movers will be by next week for the rest of my things. Please don’t do the thing you always do and fly it over here. It’s emasculating.