Henry lies weak and near death, the sound of a ticking clock marking his last moments. With fading strength, he turns to his wife, Martha, and asks a question that has clearly weighed on his mind: whether she has ever been unfaithful to him. His tone is tender but urgent, seeking the truth before he passes.Martha hesitates, twisting her wedding ring nervously before admitting that she has, in fact, been unfaithful—three times.
She quickly adds that each instance had a good reason behind it. Her honesty shocks Henry, but his curiosity and affection compel him to hear her explanations.Her first confession is that years earlier, when they were close to losing their home, she visited the banker privately. The next day, their mortgage was miraculously extended. Though surprised, Henry understands that she acted out of desperation and forgives her, recognizing that she saved their home.
