I feel every inch of my body freeze as I remained still, crouched low behind the nearest patch of tall grass, hoping it was enough to keep me hidden. The rustling of nearby foliage sent my heart racing, each sound sharpening the edge of my fear. I was terrified.If Alan discovers me right now, it would not be pleasant and I can only imagine what it would result to when we got home. He already wants me to get treatment and lock me away.Worse than that, I still have that ill and sickly feeling that he wishes me dead.Sweat prickled at my brow, gathering into heavy beads that slid down my face, each one a reminder of how deeply I’d miscalculated. I should have waited for Lincoln. I never should have come out here alone. Every decision that brought me to this moment—every reckless choice, every ignored instinct—unraveled in my mind like a chain I couldn’t break. But it was too late now. There was no turning back.The rustling in the underbrush grew louder, closer, as if Alan could sense
I know that waiting for Lincoln would’ve been the smarter thing to do but I couldn’t miss this opportunity. Only now, I wish I’d thought more thoroughly about my decision.My flats, although, very stylish and silent made walking a challenge as I slipped in the wet marshy grass with every step. I worried more that I would fall into the lake: creating a spectacle of myself than being caught by Alan first. I had to take extra precaution and because of that, I had lost sight of Alan and the woman who had accompanied him. It wasn’t until I reached the foliage that I could walk with ease again. The ground was drier here. It must be from the excess amount of trees, shrubs and tall grass - all seeking hydration. I then quickly and quietly regained my pace and tried to continue following. I couldn’t see Alan and the woman anymore but I could hear their footsteps through the tall grass and followed the sounds carefully. This has to be her. Why would Alan need to walk this far away from ever
“You really think so?” I ask coyly. Better to act innocent than to rush after Jessie and make my motives obvious.“Absolutely. Tall, handsome, and successful. It’s just shocking to see you’re not married by now.” She is definitely flirting with me. This is getting uncomfortable. Is Grace drunk? Or is she really just throwing me a line here?“Im married to my career. It takes up most of my time.” I shrug. No need to give her any inclination that I’m interested. I came here to investigate and verify that she is not Alan’s mistress or a backstabbing friend to Jessie and now that that’s confirmed, I need to plan a carefully executed escape to go find Jessie without rising suspicion.“Maybe I could stop by your office some time. I’d love a tour.” Again, Grace runs her finger along my elbow and I feel a shiver of discomfort. How could a married woman be this shameless? It was women like her that kept my firm in business.“I’d not so sure that Peter would like that.” I muse. “If he were ev
“If I didn’t know any better, I’d think you were happily married.” The words stung as they rolled off of Lincoln’s tongue. I know he means well but it doesn’t take away the pain engraved in that phrase. We could have been. We could have been happy.We could have continued being happy for the rest of our lives if Alan would’ve allowed it. We have built a beautiful family together.I would have realigned the stars by hand to make that happen if I could. If he would have just allowed me to. Instead, he’s grown to intimidate, terrorize and patronize me. I snap back to reality where I stand just a few feet from the bank of the lake. The beautiful water glistening with sunshine playfully as I focus on the task at hand. Thankfully, the party seemed to be running along smoothly.I stand by and wait for Lincoln to approach Grace just like he suggested. I watch as the other ladies disperse.I waited just out of her line of sight, waiting for a signal to send a text message to the phone numbe
After watching Jessie greet guests gracefully and with poise, I meet with her near the refreshments table.“You handle yourself well, given the circumstances. If I didn’t know any know any better, I’d say you were happily married.” I say casually as I motion for the bartender to hand me a beer from the cooler. “Beer?” I hold one out which she takes willingly. I then motion for another for myself before we continue our conversation.“I have a hunch. Grace has blonde hair and she owes my husband money, right?” She whispered as we walked away from the table and the guests.“Right.” The shells in her head were churning again.“What if she’s actually his mistress? She was in his office that night - alone, she had taken his money and has obviously communicated with him behind my back. It’s entirely possible.” She wasn’t wrong. Grace does have the means to contact Alan, a reason to please him and a motive to betray her - it all stems from money.“Okay, then let’s just test your theory.” I sh
Last night went by peacefully. Alan seemed oblivious to my purchase and invitation of his mistress. He simply came home from work, sat down for dinner and we ate in silence.I could feel his eyes boring into me with every bite I took as I continued to play his loving wife.Then we went to bed with a word.Once I awoke, I got dressed quickly and prepared myself to head to the lake to make sure everything was going according to plan for Alan’s Lawn Birthday Event.“Leaving so soon?” I hear from behind me, causing me to jump. I hadn’t notice Alan was sitting on the couch behind me as I walked into the living room to retrieve my purse.“Oh. I just want to make sure everything is prepared for your birthday event today, that’s all.” I plaster my softest smile and turn to leave.“Jessie.” I hear Alan call behind me in an ominous tone. I feel a shiver as I turn around to face him. He was just behind me - almost touching chest to chest once I turned completely around. I feel my breath catch as