All Chapters of Letting Go: Chapter 1 - Chapter 8

Zander didn’t come home last night, but that’s not surprising. He hasn’t been home most nights in months, too busy running after her to remember he’s married to someone else. Sure enough, my phone lights up with a notification of a post Mariah made on social media. It’s a picture of Zander sound asleep in her bed under the covers, with the caption, ‘So blessed to be loved by a doting man. I was injured at work, and he came to take care of me.’ The comments were blowing up. I muted the notification, not wanting to see it. I remember when Zander would insist on having me rest when I came home with a headache. Now he couldn't care less when he’s told I fainted at work and was sent to the hospital. I get up and dress for the day, sliding the divorce papers and copies of everything they said I needed into an envelope to bring to the court. The sooner I file, the sooner I’m free from this nightmare of a marriage. I’m eating breakfast when the front door opens and in w

One week later It’s been a week, and the game with Mariah has been in full swing. I’m counting down the days, while Zander is blindly catering to Mariah’s every whim. There’s a knock on the door, and I answer it knowing it’s Ace coming to play his game for two days. “Thanks again, Saraphina. I don’t think I could do this without the support of a good friend,” Ace stated with a sigh. “Of course, I told you, I’m here for you if you just need to talk. It’s the least I can do to offer you the couch. I’m sorry it’s not more, but you know you are always welcome,” I state loudly. “How’s your mom holding up?” “Honestly, she’s a wreck. I still cannot believe my dad ran off with a twenty-something year old, leaving my mom with nothing. Selling the house is the hardest thing for her,” Ace continues. His improvisation is impeccable. “Well, come on in. Make yourself comfortable. I’m just making some dinner, so you’re right on

One week later Just one more week, then I can walk away knowing that the divorce will be final within three weeks. I already put my parents' address on the forms as my new place of residence with the dissolution of the marriage, so the notice of divorce will be sent there for me. Last week, Zander spent two days competing with Ace for my attention, and honestly, it felt good. Until Ace left, and Zander’s attention snapped back on Mariah, which made her walk around more boldly. Ace still does daily check-ins with me, but it’s like having a second brother. We’ve always been close, and like family, but it was never anything more as he alluded to with Zander. I get home from another long day, feeling completely drained, only to find Zander standing proudly in the living room holding a box open to Mariah, who is excitedly admiring the contents of the box. “Zander, I can’t believe you remembered I liked this necklace,” She was practically in tears.

The gala was a success the other night. My boss was happy and sad that I was leaving the company. He offered to transfer me to a new branch they are opening in another state and told me to consider it before my final day. It’s in Colorado, and at least I could continue to make money. I’ve talked to Jake and Ace about it, and they both feel it’s a good choice. I accepted the transfer and revoked my resignation from the company this morning. Now I’m standing in the lobby of the OB waiting for Ace to arrive. I know they were scheduled to leave today, but he promised to be here. When Jake walks in instead, my heart sinks. “It’s more appropriate for me to be here instead of our adopted brother, little sis. Less potential scandal,” Jake explains. “I gave him and you, my word. Everything that’s happening in your personal life is completely under your control.”“Thanks, Jake,” he hugs me and they call my name. I told the doctor about the emergency room visit and made sure they are