Chapter 4
When I arrived at my parents‘ house, my father looked surprised and asked, “Sweetheart, what brings you home?”
I kept my head down, saying nothing.
My mother’s face darkened when she noticed my puffy, tear–streaked eyes.
“Annie,” she asked, “tell me–did Steven hurt you?”
A lump formed in my throat, and I fought back tears.
“Mom, Dad… Steven cheated on me. I want a divorce,” I said.
My mother pulled me into a tight hug, her voice trembling. “Then that’s what we’ll do. If you’ve made up your mind, we’ll
support you.”
Back in my old room, I noticed my phone had been on silent.
Dozens of missed calls lit up the screen.
Before I could ignore them, the phone rang again.
Steven’s angry voice barked on the other end, “Anya, where the hell are you? Do you think divorce is a joke? I’m giving you one
hour to get back here! You still have 59 minutes…”
I rolled my eyes at his audacity.
“The papers are on the table. Don’t forget to sign them,” I said.
Without waiting for a response, I hung up.
When I left my room, my mother had already made me my favorite soup. Famished, I finished a big bowl.
My phone wouldn’t stop buzzing. I glanced at it—my work group chat had exploded with over 99 messages.
Before I could check them, some of my employees sent me private,messages.
[Anya, you’re so lucky! Mr. Cobham is giving us a month–long vacation to take you on a trip! We’re all so jealous of you two!]
[Have fun, Anya! Don’t forget to share pics of the auroras!]
Confused, I scrolled through the group chat, which was flooded with praise for Steven.
[Mr. Cobham is amazing!]
[Mr. Cobham is the best!]
My stomach churned as realization hit.
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