The Dutch magazine LINDA explores the complexities of romantic relationships, noting that while intense infatuation and steady partnerships are highly valued, not every fairy tale concludes with a happy ending. [1]
In its 'Bedrogen Vrouw' (Betrayed Woman) column, the publication shares testimonies from women who were deceived by partners. One such account is provided by Carly, a 49-year-old woman whose partner maintained four concurrent long-term relationships alongside their own. The story is featured as part of the 'Bedrogen Vrouw' series, which highlights experiences of betrayal in intimate partnerships. [1]
Carly's relationship with the man, identified as Mark, lasted for three years. Carly met Mark shortly after the end of a previous long-term relationship. Initially connecting through professional interests, their bond evolved into romance. Carly describes the early stages as feeling 'perfect,' noting a strong connection with Mark's family. She became deeply invested in their future together, spending significant time renovating and decorating Mark's house with the expectation that they would grow old there together. [1]
Despite the initial perceived perfection, Carly recalls certain difficulties in the relationship, specifically mentioning a lack of sexual intimacy. Mark managed a demanding business that required much of his attention, and he struggled with strained relationships with some family members. Because Carly also worked long hours, often traveling to different provinces for client visits, she attributed Mark's occasional lack of interest to his heavy workload. While she worked away from home, Mark primarily worked from home. [1]
Carly believed it was ideal for Mark to be home with their dog, unaware that this arrangement provided him ample opportunity for extramarital affairs. She did not question his unpredictable schedule, late arrivals, or hours-long cycling trips, as the latter had been a long-standing hobby. Trusting her partner, she felt there was no need to conduct any 'investigative research' into his activities. [1]
The deception came to light around Mark's birthday. While Carly was at her office, Mark called her in tears, claiming he had done something terrible and asking for forgiveness. Upon arriving home, Mark confessed to maintaining two full relationships simultaneously—not mere affairs, but committed partnerships. One had lasted two and a half years, and the other over a year. [1]
Carly contacted both women while Mark was present, and their accounts confirmed his betrayal. Some of the women had even left their own husbands in hopes that Mark would choose them, believing they were in monogamous relationships with him. Adding to the distress, Carly discovered that one of the women was an acquaintance who occasionally assisted in Carly's own business. [1]
Further investigation revealed that the extent of the betrayal exceeded Mark's initial confession. After Mark claimed he was ill and needed help due to remorse, Carly searched his phone while he slept. She found numerous messages and explicit photos from multiple women, including records of sauna appointments and detailed discussions about their sexual preferences. [1]
In total, Mark had been involved with four women in serious, long-term contacts. This revelation explained his frequent fatigue and lack of sexual desire toward Carly, as he was effectively managing five simultaneous relationships. The couple attempted relationship therapy, as Carly hoped the man she loved could feel genuine remorse. However, she soon discovered Mark was still in contact with one of the other women, which he justified by claiming the woman was psychologically fragile. Eventually, Mark ended the relationship with Carly and shortly thereafter began a partnership with one of the other four women. [1]
Following the breakup, Mark attempted to control the external narrative regarding the split. Mark told others that Carly was emotionally unstable, a claim that some people initially believed. Carly describes this as deeply painful, asserting that Mark was the one acting in a calculating and manipulative manner. [1]
The situation escalated to physical violence when Carly went to retrieve her belongings. Mark waited for her with a hockey stick and assaulted her in the driveway. During the attack, he knocked her phone out of her hand to prevent her from calling emergency services. Carly eventually escaped and sought help from neighbors to file a police report, expressing shock that the man she loved could commit such an act. [1]
Carly shared her story not for revenge, but as a warning about the dangers of letting professional and private lives merge too closely and placing absolute trust in another person. She notes that critical warning signs can be easily missed and states that she is now focused on reclaiming her life. [1]
In conjunction with the story, the publication provides resources for those feeling unsafe in their homes, directing readers to call Veilig Thuis in the Netherlands at 0800 2000 for advice or reports, or 112 in cases of immediate danger. Carly's identity has been anonymized for the article, though her real name is known to the editorial staff. [1]
LINDA continues to solicit similar stories of betrayal from its readers. Women who wish to share their experiences of betrayal anonymously are invited to email Ellen Hensbergen at LINDA.nl with their name, age, phone number, and a brief summary of their experience. [1]
The publication also promotes its newsletter for subscribers to receive curated content directly via email. [1]
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