A Lifetime Sealed by a False Oath
While enrolling my son in an elite school, the administrator suddenly tells me my marriage certificate is forged.
"According to our records, your marital status is listed as single."
"But I've been married to my husband, Chandler Leighton, for seven years!"
Behind me, other parents waiting in line burst out laughing mockingly. "Did she just say Chandler Leighton? She must be dreaming."
Amid their ridicule, I leave and head straight to the city hall for a confirmation. And as a wife of seven years, my marital status in the system is stated as "Single".
A cold dread washes over me as I press. "Who is Chandler Leighton's legal wife?"
The clerk flatly spats out a name, "Heather Hammington."
It was that name again!
I rush home, ready to confront Chandler, but pause just outside the door when I hear voices inside.
"It's been seven years, Mr. Leighton. Do you still have no plans to grant Mrs. Leighton a legal status?"
After a lengthy pause, Chandler finally answers, "Just wait a little longer. Heather lost both her parents… I'm the only one who can help her, so she needs this title."
"What if Mrs. Leighton finds out?"
"Danielle loves me too much to leave, even if she finds out. Once Heather has established her foothold in the business industry, I'll make it official with Danielle and give her a true marriage certificate."
He sounds so certain, unaware that I'm standing just outside the door with tears streaming down my face.
"You'll be disappointed, you liar."
I take out my phone and dial a number I haven't called in years. "Mom, I accept the Atwoods' marriage arrangement."