40

I left Ivan, and he made no effort to stop or chase after me. There was nothing he could do to change my decision.

Given his past actions, did he truly believe I would entertain his proposal? It felt like I was permitting him to inflict more pain on me. He needed to understand that I was no longer the delicate wife who could empathize with him, even during moments of distress. I am no longer that person.

I showered before joining Heather in bed, but despite a bit of alcohol, sleep eluded me. Frustrated, I rose to engage in some work.

Reflecting on the situation, I shook my head in disbelief. Damn you, Ivan! All you ever did was play with my emotions. It would have been okay if there weren't a child involved. Even Heather, you're messing with her mind.

***

I woke up to the realization that Heather was no longer beside me. Despite the throbbing pain in my head, I compelled myself to rise and tend to my child; it was already eight in the morning, and she might be hungry. After fre