Ease

Life without her is easier.

He no longer needs to examine his shirts for crimson lipstick smudges 

or lingering traces of perfume. 

Or for her body’s delicious scent. 

 He does not have to set his phone to soundlessly vibrate, in case she texts. 

He knows that every date in his calendar is honest and justified. 

He has no need to disappear answer her needy call. 

Or lower his voice when he bravely and hungrily calls her from the house.

There are no longer any secrets that might become unraveled. 

No chance sightings to somehow explain. 

No confusions over time and places and moments shared. 

No tell-tale receipts in his wallet. 

Or marks on his skin.

The heavy burden of guilt that he has carried

 without realising it has lifted from his shoulders 

and left him feeling light and free. 

He thinks he has become a better man. 

The stone in his heart has been rolled away.

There is something to be said for not cheating