One

A cool breeze brushed against Ella’s face as she stepped into the hospital. The scent of antiseptic filled the air, but she had long grown used to it.

The moment she reached the reception desk, a familiar voice called out cheerfully.

“Miss Ella, welcome!” Carla greeted her with a wide smile. She always looked forward to Ella’s visits not just because she liked her, but because Ella never arrived empty-handed.

Ella returned the smile and set her bag down in front of Carla. “Look at you, Carla! Always glowing. Is my friend in her office?”

“You're in luck! She doesn’t have any appointments right now, so you’re free to go in.”

“Of course, I’m the luckiest person to have a doctor as my best friend.” Ella handed Carla a small package. “This is for you.”

“Thank you so much, ma’am!” Carla beamed, watching as Ella chuckled and made her way toward Jessica’s office.

At the door, Ella knocked gently and waited.

“Come in!” Jessica’s voice called out.

The moment Ella stepped inside, Jessica's face lit up.

“Hey, girly!”

Ella plopped into the chair across from her, crossing her arms. “You should really learn how to address your patients properly. Stop talking to me like that.” She lifted her chin in mock pride.

Jessica burst into laughter, shaking her head. “Oh, please. You should be grateful to have a doctor as your best friend. Do you know how hard it is to get an appointment with someone like me?”

“True.” Ella grinned. “I’m just messing with you. I really am lucky to have you. Now, tell me—where’s my result? I’ve been feeling weak lately, and I just want to get it over with.” She rubbed her temple.

Jessica slid a piece of paper across the desk. “No need for treatment, you're perfectly fine. In fact, congratulations! You’re one month pregnant.”

Ella froze, staring at the result in disbelief. “Wait… I’m pregnant?”

Jessica smirked. “Your hearing is just fine, Ella. Yes, you’re pregnant.”

A beat passed before Ella suddenly jumped up, her face lighting up with joy. “Oh my God! I’m pregnant!” She lunged forward, wrapping Jessica in a tight hug. “Thank you so much, bestie! I love you for this.”

Jessica gasped, trying to pry Ella off. “Ella—can’t—breathe!”

Ella laughed and quickly let go. “Sorry! I’m just so happy. Richard is going to be thrilled. I can’t wait to tell him!” She clapped her hands excitedly.

Jessica leaned back, watching Ella’s excitement. “Just make sure you stay calm and tell him when he gets home. And before I forget, I’ll send you a list of things you should start doing as a pregnant woman.”

“You’re the best, Jess. I should go now. I need to grab some groceries and make Richard’s favorite dinner. Tonight will be so special! It’s our wedding anniversary, and now, we have a baby on the way.” Ella beamed, grabbing her bag.

Jessica pouted playfully. “Ugh, stop making me jealous! Have some pity on your single best friend.”

Ella giggled. “Then go get married already! Bye, Jess, I’ll text you later.”

Jessica shook her head as Ella rushed out. “She’s really happy.”

--

Later that evening, Ella sat patiently in the grand dining room, waiting for Richard’s return. She had spent the evening preparing his favorite meal, making sure everything was perfect. Even though the maids had been dismissed, she wanted this night to be just the two of them.

After checking the time for the tenth time, she moved toward the window, peeking outside. Moments later, a sleek black limousine pulled into the driveway.

Her heart leaped with excitement.

Richard stepped out, his tall figure illuminated by the mansion’s lights. He looked as stunning as ever, his expensive suit perfectly tailored, his dark hair slightly tousled, his jacket casually draped over his arm.

Ella quickly rushed back to her seat, smoothing down her dress.

When the doors opened, she jogged over to him with a bright smile. “Welcome home, babe!” She reached out to hug him, but instead of embracing her, Richard caught her wrist, stopping her in place.

His grip was firm. Cold.

“I have something to tell you.” His voice was calm, emotionless.

Ella, still smiling, sat across from him. “I have something to tell you too! But let’s talk over dinner first. I made all your favorites. You’ll love them.”

Richard didn’t move toward the dining table. Instead, he reached into his briefcase and pulled out a document, placing it in front of her. “Take a look at this. Let me know if you have any other requests apart from what’s written down.”

Ella chuckled, playfully picking up the papers. “What is this? Some kind of surprise?” But the smile vanished from her face the moment she read the bold title on the first page Divorce Agreement.

Her hands trembled as she processed the words. The letters seemed to blur before her eyes.

Richard exhaled tiredly, loosening his tie. He looked completely unaffected, as if what he had just done was the most natural thing in the world.

He didn’t plan on celebrating their anniversary. To him, this was just another business deal, one that needed to be finalized. He had already made his decision long ago.

Ella was no longer the woman he wanted.

She was just an ordinary woman too simple, too insignificant for the grand life he envisioned.

It was time to end this charade.

His voice was devoid of emotion as he spoke his next words.

“I don’t think I can continue this marriage with you. I’ve found someone else the woman who truly makes my heart race"

A deep silence settled between them.

Then, in a tone colder than ice, he uttered the final blow.

“Let’s divorce.”