Nicholas Sparks — Marriage Was Over Months Ago

EXCLUSIVE

Turns out famed author Nicholas Sparks didn’t suddenly choose this week to end his 25-year marriage … it looks like the deed was done months ago, and there are BIG financial repercussions.

TMZ has obtained a “postmarital covenant” filed by “The Notebook” author and wife Catherine back in August. They agreed neither would seek child support from the additional.  

They acknowledge neither has a claim on the assets the other accumulates after their separation. 

What’s pretty clear is this … they seem way more than “separated,” which is what they told People. The document was signed after a quarter century of marriage, and it seems evident … Nicholas and Catherine decided last Summer their marriage was over.

Here’s what it smells like … they worked out a material goods agreement covenant and Catherine got a big chunk of exchange.