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I screamed at my husband, “Don’t you dare talk to me about the child! Having a father like you would be his misfortune!”
Without waiting for a response, I spun around and ran into the bedroom, slamming the door behind me. A second later, I heard James outside, yelling in frustration. Eventually, the shouting faded, and tears streamed uncontrollably down. my face.
When Lindsay joined the company, things had changed between us. My sense of security vanished, replaced by suspicion. and anxiety. I found myself constantly wondering if he still loved me. At one point, I even considered having a child just to keep him tied to me. But when I first showed him the positive pregnancy test, I’ll never forget the furious, twisted look on his face.
He had been texting Lindsay then, and in a
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split second, he smashed his phone against. the table, shattering the screen. “The company’s expanding, and money is tight. I can’t afford a kid right now. Just get rid of it.”
I was shocked, angry, and heartbroken, but I stood my ground and refused. Not long after, James invited me to a business event. We hadn’t gone anywhere together in two years, so I assumed it was work–related and agreed with little thought.
But when I found myself surrounded by a group of greasy, middle–aged men raising their glasses toward me, I realized what was happening. I glanced at him, hoping for help, but he was too busy bragging about how much I could drink.
Forced to down glass after glass, my tears mixed with the liquor. An hour later, I collapsed to the ground, my skirt soaked in blood. Only then did James finally take me to the hospital, but it was too late. The baby
was gone.
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That’s why I hadn’t told him about this pregnancy.
If he hadn’t used the excuse of being too broke to raise a child back then, maybe I wouldn’t have been so triggered by his actions of giving away houses and company shares like they were nothing. Looking back, he probably had plans for that money all along. Our child’s existence disrupted his pursuit of his ‘true love,‘ and that’s why he was so angry.
Seeing Lindsay’s latest post on social media confirmed what I already knew. This marriage was over.
When I woke up the following day, James was already gone. I called a lawyer and had divorce papers drawn up. While preparing to send them to his office, I saw a
celebratory video on their corporate
account.
Lindsay was promoted to company shareholder, holding the same title as James. She was no longer just a secretary.
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She now held an executive position..
In the video, they hold champagne glasses, toasting each other as employees cheer them on. James’s wedding ring was. replaced by a more delicate one that
matches Lindsay’s–a new model from this year’s collection.
I couldn’t help but laugh bitterly.
I remember when we got married, his company was just starting out. I only asked for the cheapest ring at the store to ease hist financial burden. He was moved to tears. and promised to buy me the most expensive ring when he made more money.
Eight years later, the ring he promised me ended on another woman’s finger. Just as I finished sending the divorce papers, James called.
“I’ll pick you up tonight. The company is having a team–building event. Lindsay said she wants to clear up any
misunderstandings between you two.”
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Before I could respond, he hung up. I didn’t expect him to unblock me right before the divorce, and I wasn’t sure whether to feel amused or heartbroken. A mocking smile crept onto my lips.
‘A misunderstanding? Is she here to explain or to show off?‘ I thought.
But at that point, I didn’t care anymore. After finalizing the divorce agreement, I went to the hospital for a check–up. The doctor prescribed more medication and warned me that my condition was worse
than before. He stressed that I needed to
keep my emotions in check, as any stress could affect the baby.
Taking his advice seriously, I picked up my medication and went home. I started
looking for a new place to live, knowing I couldn’t stay in this toxic environment. It wasn’t safe for me or for the baby. After searching all day, I found a place and paid the deposit. I gave myself the prescribed injection, and just as I started packing, I
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got a notification that James’s car had pulled up downstairs.
I went down in my pajamas, thinking we could talk seriously.
But the moment he saw me, his face twisted in disgust. “You’re going out like that? Can you stop embarrassing me? People will think I can’t even afford to buy you makeup!”
Sitting in the passenger seat with her perfect makeup, Lindsay giggled and opened the door. Standing next to her, I felt even more worn out and drained.
Before I could respond, she smiled brightly and nudged me into the backseat. “Oh, Shannon, no need to get all dressed up! You’re already beautiful enough! Besides, do
you think James would even let you leave the house if you got all dolled up?”
The door shut behind me, and she casually slid back into the front seat. They chatted non–stop during the drive while I sat in the
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back, feeling like a complete outsider. In our eight years of marriage, I had never seen James this eager to share anything with me. At that moment, I clearly felt the difference between being loved and not being loved.
When the car finally stopped, I was shocked to see that the team–building event was being held at the same barbecue stall where I had almost been assaulted the other night. The owner was open for business this time, and the tables outside were packed with company employees. When they saw James step out with Lindsay, they rushed to greet the two, calling them ‘Mr. Carter‘ and ‘Miss Thompson‘ while the employees ushered them to the center of attention.
I scanned the area and noticed only one seat left in the corner.
At that moment, Lindsay playfully smacked her forehead and stuck out her tongue as if she had just remembered something. “Oh
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no! I totally forgot about Shannon’s seat! Can someone make some room-?”
Before I could say a word, James had already spoken for me, turning down her offer. “There’s no need. I’ll just sit here. It’s just dinner.”
I didn’t argue. I walked straight to the corner seat. The table was full of new hires, none of whom knew who I was. James didn’t bother introducing me, so no one tried to talk to me. I was grateful for the quiet. It wasn’t until I overheard a conversation that I realized Lindsay had suggested this place. She was reminiscing about how she and James came here often
in school.
I only took a few bites when a familiar voice sounded in my ear. “Well, well, isn’t this the girl who wouldn’t take my offer that night? Back again tonight to look for
clients? How about $500 bucks this time?
Deal?”
