All Chapters of A Spark in The Ashes of Our Vows: Chapter 1 - Chapter 10

The sunlight filtering through the curtains feels like an accusation. I blink awake, my body heavy with familiar dread as I turn to look at Alex's sleeping form beside me. His broad back is turned away, shoulders rising and falling with each breath. Even in sleep, he seems distant. I slip out of bed, careful not to disturb him. The hardwood floor is cool beneath my feet as I pad to the bathroom, shutting the door with a soft click. My reflection greets me in the mirror - a woman I barely recognize anymore. Shadows under my eyes, lines etched at the corners. When did I start looking so... tired? "Another day," I murmur, reaching for my toothbrush. The minty foam fills my mouth as I scrub mechanically, my mind already drifting to work. To Jack's easy smile, the way his eyes crinkle at the corners when he laughs. Stop it, Samantha. I rinse and spit, splashing cold water on my face. But the thought lingers, a spark of warmth in the chill of the morning. As I pat my skin dry, I hear

The fluorescent lights flicker overhead as I restock the shelves, my hands moving mechanically while my mind wanders. Jack's voice cuts through my reverie, warm and familiar. "Samantha, can I see you in my office for a moment?" I nod, my heart quickening as I follow him. His broad shoulders fill the doorway, and I catch a whiff of his cologne as I slip past. The scent lingers, comforting yet dangerous. Jack leans against his desk, a grin spreading across his face. "I've got some news." "Oh?" I try to keep my voice steady, fighting the urge to smooth my hair. "I've been promoted to regional manager," he announces, his eyes sparkling with excitement. My stomach drops. "That's... wonderful," I manage, forcing a smile. But inside, I'm reeling. Regional manager means he won't be here every day. No more stolen glances across the store, no more lingering touches as we pass tools back and forth. "You don't seem thrilled," Jack says, his brow furrowing. I shake my head, trying to dispe

The scent of fresh coffee and warm pastries envelops me as I step into The Daily Grind, the familiar aroma doing little to calm my racing thoughts. My eyes scan the crowded space, a sea of strangers lost in their own worlds, until I spot a flash of vibrant red hair in the far corner. Angela. My heart quickens as I make my way through the maze of tables, clutching my purse like a lifeline. Jack's face flickers through my mind - his warm smile, those captivating eyes - followed by the hollow echo of another silent dinner with Alex. The weight of my conflicting emotions threatens to pull me under. "Sam! Over here!" Angela's cheerful voice cuts through the din, anchoring me back to the present. I force a smile as I approach, grateful for her familiar presence yet apprehensive about the conversation to come. "Hey, Ang," I manage, sliding into the seat across from her. Her green eyes sparkle with warmth as she gives my hand a quick squeeze. "I swear, this weather can't make up its mind,

The convention center buzzes with energy as Jack and I push through the revolving doors, a sea of name tags and eager faces greeting us. My heart flutters, though whether from excitement or nerves, I can't tell. "Quite the turnout," Jack remarks, his easy smile warming me despite the air conditioning's chill. I nod, drinking in the sights and sounds. "It's overwhelming, but in a good way." We weave through the crowd, our shoulders bumping as we navigate the throng. Jack's presence beside me is a steady anchor amid the chaos. A familiar face catches my eye - Tom from accounting at our store. "Samantha! Jack! Glad you made it," Tom calls out, waving enthusiastically. "Wouldn't miss it," Jack replies smoothly, placing a hand on the small of my back as he guides us towards Tom. The touch sends a jolt through me, and I struggle to focus on the conversation. As Tom rattles on about the day's schedule, I find my gaze drifting to Jack. The way his eyes crinkle when he laughs, how he le

"Back to real life," I mutter, wrapping my arms around myself. The streets are quiet, save for the occasional early bird jogger or dog walker. As I walk to my car, I can't help but feel exposed, as if everyone can see the truth written across my face. My fingers tremble slightly as I unlock the door, the weight of my responsibilities settling back onto my shoulders. The drive home is a blur of familiar sights that now feel alien. I pass the corner store where Victoria buys her favorite candy, the park where Alex and I used to have picnics. Each landmark is a reminder of the life I'm jeopardizing, the trust I'm betraying. "What am I doing?" I whisper, gripping the steering wheel tighter. As I turn onto our street, my heart races. The tidy row of houses, once a symbol of suburban comfort, now feels like a prison of expectations. I park in the driveway, staring at our house – the flowerbeds I planted last spring, the porch swing Alex built for our anniversary. "I can't keep doing th