The Day I Walked Away From the Man Who Ruined Me

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I was lying in a hospital bed, still weak after a miscarriage, when I saw pictures of my husband, Marcus, kissing another woman. I tried to convince myself it wasnt realjust a hallucination from medication or exhaustionuntil I got home and saw him myself, in our own house, tangled in bed with Cassie, his best friends sister.

Shh, Marcus go easy, okay? Cassie whispered, her voice light and teasing as she traced her fingers along his back, nails lightly pressing into his skin. What if she wakes up and catches us like this?

Shes not waking up, he answered without hesitation, voice low and unbothered. I gave her the medicine she was taking. Shes completely out until morning.

The words hit me like a blow.

Cassie paused, her hands stilling for a second on his shoulders. Youre still doing that kind of thing? What if that medicine is what caused her miscarriage?

My hand flew to my mouth. I had to bite down hard on my knuckle just to stop myself from screaming.

Marcus laughed.

It wasnt nervous. It wasnt guilty. It was emptycruel in a way that made my skin crawl. Probably, he said with a careless shrug as he shifted closer to her. But so what? I didnt want the baby anyway. Shes the one who kept insisting on it. It was just annoying.

Annoying. As if my child, my grief, my pain meant nothing at all.

Cassie tilted her head, running her fingers along his jaw. But you really love her, dont you?

Of course I do, Marcus answered immediately, like it was the easiest lie in the world. Thats why she cant know about this. And your brothermy best frienddoesnt either. Understand?

And then they were kissing again, messy and hungry, completely lost in each other while I stood frozen in the dark, feeling something inside me break beyond repair.

A laugh slipped out of me before I could stop it.

How could someone claim love while destroying me like this?

I stepped back quietly and left them to it.

The next morning, I waited until Marcus left for workkissing my forehead gently, acting like nothing had happened, telling me to rest and that he loved me. I waited until his car disappeared down the road before I moved.

Then I got dressed. Pulled on my coat. Hid my shaking hands deep in my pockets. And left.

I went straight to Simons office. He was an old friend, a lawyer who knew me long before I became Mrs. Marcus Sinclair.

Prepare divorce papers, I said as soon as I sat down.

Simon froze, pen hovering over paper. Nora are you sure? Its only been a week since thesince what happened.

It wasnt an accident, I said flatly. Just do it, Simon. Please.

He leaned back, exhaling heavily and rubbing his forehead. Alright I wont file them yet. Ill keep it quiet for now. But Nora, think about this.

He gestured toward me, toward how thin and drained I looked.

Where will you even go? he asked gently. You gave up your job. You sold your place. Everything revolves around him now.

I stared down at my hands. He wasnt wrong. Slowly, carefully, Marcus had taken everything from memy independence, my work, my friendsuntil there was nothing left that wasnt tied to him.

He used to love you, Simon added, softer now. Ive never seen him like that before. Remember when you were sick last year? He didnt leave your side for days.

I closed my eyes.

I remembered.

Four years of believing in him. Four years of thinking I was loved so completely it could never break.

The grand gestures. The way he looked at me like I was the only person in the room. The time I casually mentioned wanting a specific chocolate from Belgiumhow he actually flew there, skipping a major business deal just to bring it back himself and see me smile.

Id burn the world for you, Nora, he used to say.

But he didnt burn the world.

He burned me.

It was never love. It was control dressed up as devotion. A beautiful cage I mistook for safety.

The memory of him laughing about our baby turned everything else into ash.

I opened my eyes again. Tears burned, but I refused to let them fall.

Just process it, I said, standing up and fixing my coat. I want it done in a week.

Simon looked worried. Nora

Im leaving, I cut in. Im moving to another country.

When I got home, Cassie was on the sofa flipping through a magazine like she belonged there. Her hair was messy, lips slightly swollen. Marcus stood nearby, adjusting his cuffs, looking every bit the perfect husband.

The smell hit me firstmusk, sweat, sex hidden under expensive cologne.

Nora, baby, where were you? he asked quickly, coming over and taking my hands. His face shifted into concern like a mask slipping into place. I tried calling you. LookI got you flowers. I even planned dinner for us tonight.

I glanced at the bouquet on the table. Then at Cassie, who didnt even bother to look up.

I forced a small smile. It felt like glass cracking inside my face. Im tired, Marcus. I just want to sleep.

He didnt push it. Of course he didnt. He was always careful when he was pretending.

He led me to the bedroom and pressed a warm glass of milk into my hands.

Drink this, he said softly, kissing my forehead. Itll help you recover. You need rest.

I nodded and took it.

But the moment the door clicked shut, I poured it down the bathroom sink.

I didnt sleep that night. I lay in the dark, staring at the ceiling while the house stayed quietexcept for the thin walls.

And through them, I heard everything.

Yes. Send the divorce papers by email.

I spoke softly into the phone, my back turned to the door as I stared out at the city lights from our bedroom window. My chest felt tight, each heartbeat loud and uneven in my ears.

After ending the call, I slowly turned around.

Marcus was there.

My grip on the phone nearly slipped. He stood in the doorway, still dressed in his office suit, his face drained of color, eyes wide with something close to panicsomething I had never seen from him before. He had heard everything.

Divorce? he repeated hoarsely. The word felt heavy in the air between us. He stepped forward, his hands unsteady. Nora what are you talking about? Divorce?

My stomach dropped. If he found out, if he realized I was leaving him, everything would collapse. He would trap me again. He would drug me again if he had to.

So I laughed.

Light. Effortless. A sound that didnt match the fear clawing at my throat.

Oh, Marcus, you scared me, I said, walking toward him as I slipped my phone into my pocket like nothing had happened. Its not what you think. Its Megan.

His brow furrowed slightly. Megan?

Yeah. My college friend, I continued smoothly. She called me crying. Found out her husbands cheating on her. Can you imagine? After everything she did for him. I shook my head as if disgusted. So I told her to file for divorce right away. I even said Id help her talk to Simonyou know him, right? My lawyer friend.

The tension in his body loosened instantly. His shoulders dropped, and he let out a breath he seemed to have been holding too long.

Oh thank God, he muttered, dragging a hand through his hair. Then he pulled me into his arms, tight enough to hurt. He buried his face against my neck like he needed to feel I was still there. I thought I thought you meant us. I thought you were leaving me.

His hold didnt loosen.

It never really did.

You scared me, Nora, he whispered. Dont ever say that word again in this house.

I stayed still for a moment, then slowly patted his back like I used to.

Why would I ever leave you? I said softly, tilting my head up to meet his eyes. Unless you cheated on me?

For a split second, his expression changed. Just a flicker. Something unreadable passed through his eyes before he smoothed it away.

Of course not, he said quickly, almost offended. His hands came up to cup my face, thumbs brushing my cheeks like I was something precious. I would never do that to you. Youre everything to me, Nora. Everything. How could you even think that?

Good, I whispered, calm but edged with something sharp underneath. Because I could never forgive betrayal. Not that kind.

Youll never have to, he said, kissing my forehead. Id never hurt you.

Then he smiledwarm, charming, the same smile that once made me believe him.

Forget this, he added, brushing it off. Tomorrow is our anniversary. Lets go out tonight instead. Theres a charity auction at the gallery. Ill get you something beautiful. Anything you want.

I nodded gently. Alright. Lets go.

---

The auction was all polished elegance and quiet powerblack suits, glittering gowns, champagne under crystal lights. Cameras followed us like we were part of the exhibition itself. The perfect couple. The golden pair everyone admired.

Marcus kept my hand in his the entire time, guiding me through the crowd like I was something to display.

I stopped at the catalog and pointed lightly. This one.

Item 45. A sapphire necklace. Deep blue, elegant, almost haunting in its beauty.

Its beautiful, I murmured.

You want it? he asked immediately, tightening his hold on my hand. Its yours.

But once the bidding started, it spiraled out of control. Numbers climbed fast, voices rising, until it became a war of wealth. Marcus tried a few bids, but then a phone bidder pushed it far beyond reason.

Going once going twice sold to the bidder on the phone.

Something in me sank.

Its fine, I said quietly, forcing a small smile. It was too expensive anyway.

But Marcus suddenly stood.

He walked up onto the stage, took the microphone, and the entire hall went silent.

I may have lost that necklace, he said smoothly, voice carrying confidence and charm, but I wont let my wife leave here empty-handed. Im buying the rest of the pieces in this collectionfor her. Because nothing is ever too much for Nora.

The room erupted. Applause, admiration, envy.

A woman beside me leaned in. He really adores you. Youre so lucky.

I smiled faintly and gave a small wave, like I belonged in the picture they all believed in.

---

That night, the house fell into silence again.

Or so I thought.

I went to the kitchen for water, taking a sealed bottle I always kept hidden, when voices drifted from the study.

You didnt even bring me, Cassie snapped. I had to watch everything online like I didnt matter. And that speechnothing is too good for Nora? Seriously?

I moved closer, pressing my ear against the door.

Everyones talking about you, she went on bitterly. Youre practically trending. Husband of the year, theyre calling you. Its ridiculous.

Relax, Marcuss voice came, calm and low. Its part of the image. I have to keep her happy. She cant suspect anything.

Well, Im not happy, Cassie shot back.

I got you something, he said after a pause.

A rustle. A soft click. A box opening.

Cassie gasped. The sapphire necklace

You were the bidder? she asked, breathless.

Of course, he chuckled. She wanted it, but it belongs to you. It suits you more anyway. Blue looks better on your skin.

My stomach twisted violently.

He hadnt lost it.

He had stolen it twiceonce from me, then from everyone elsejust to hand it to her in secret.

Marcus Cassie whispered, softer now. Do you love me?

Yes, he said without hesitation. You know I do.

Then divorce her, she said immediately. Im tired of hiding. I dont want to be the secret anymore.

I cant yet, he replied, voice dropping. Not until I get my inheritance. My grandfathers trust requires me to stay marriedno divorce on record. Ill get it next month.

Next month?

Just wait, he said. After that, Ill handle everything.

Then his tone shifted, quieter. And you know your brother. Nathan would lose it if he found out. He already hates me. If he learns I cheated on my wife Im done.

I stepped back without thinking.

The floor creaked.

I froze.

Inside, they didnt notice.

Just a little longer, Cassie whispered.

Yeah, I whispered under my breath too, barely audible even to myself. Just a little longer.

My hand tightened around the bottle.

Youll never see me again.

I stood in front of the full-length mirror, carefully smoothing the silk of my emerald dress. It was simple but elegantthe kind of outfit a wife chooses for a four-year anniversary dinner, something meant to feel special. But the woman staring back at me didnt look celebratory. She looked empty. Like she was only waiting for something to go wrong.

When I stepped into the living room, Cassie was just coming out of the guest room.

She wore something barely worthy of being called a dressthin red fabric clinging tightly to her body, the neckline dipping far too low, the hem barely brushing mid-thigh. It was loud, deliberate, and impossible to ignore.

Marcus, standing near the door and checking his watch, lifted his head the moment she appeared. His expression shifted instantlyfirst surprise, then something darker.

No, he said sharply. Where do you think youre going dressed like that?

Cassie only smiled, tugging at one of her straps as if it needed fixing. Out, she replied breezily. Im going to enjoy myself. Its suffocating here with you two acting like a married couple in a romance movie.

Youre not going anywhere, Marcus cut in, stepping toward her. His tone turned harsher. That outfit is way too much. You look He hesitated, jaw tightening. You look cheap, Cassie. Change it.

She tilted her head, unimpressed. Why? Since when do you get to decide what I wear?

Because Im looking out for you, he said through clenched teeth. Nathan would flip if he saw you like that. Your brother would never approve.

From the hallway, I watched in silence.

To anyone else, it might have looked like concernlike a protective friend worried about his best friends sister. But I saw the truth in the way his gaze lingered too long, the way his jaw tightened, the possessive edge hidden beneath his words. It wasnt protection. It was ownership. He didnt want anyone else seeing her.

Cassie rolled her eyes. Youre not my boyfriend, Marcus. And youre not my brother either. Im staying here because Nathan asked you to watch me. Thats it. You dont control me.

Without another word, she grabbed her bag, pushed past him, and left, her heels striking hard against the floor. The door slammed behind her.

Marcus didnt move at first. His hands were clenched so tightly at his sides that his knuckles went pale. He stared at the door like he could burn straight through it.

I cleared my throat.

He startled, quickly turning toward me. For a brief second, his irritation was still visible before he forced it away into something softer.

Ready, love? he asked, though his voice was strained.

**

The drive to the restaurant felt suffocating.

Marcus held the steering wheel too tightly, his knuckles pale. His phone was constantly in his hand, his eyes flicking between the road, the mirror, and the screen. His leg bounced restlessly like he couldnt sit still.

If youd rather not go, I said quietly, watching the passing lights outside, we can just go back.

He let out a tense breath. No, its fine. Then after a pause, he added, Im just worried about Cassie. If anything happens to her, Nathans going to lose it. I promised him Id keep an eye on her.

Is that really all it is? I asked, turning slightly to study his profile.

He glanced at me quickly, forcing a calm expression. Of course. What else would there be?

I gave a small smile, almost tired. Alright.

The restaurant was beautiful in the way memory makes things cruel. Candlelight flickered across polished glass, a violin played softly in the background, and the scent of expensive wine filled the air. It was the same place where he had once proposed to me.

But tonight, Marcus wasnt really here.

His body sat across from me, but his attention was somewhere else entirelysomewhere with a girl in red.

His phone lit up constantly. Every few seconds, he checked it again. He barely touched his food, barely acknowledged anything I said. When I tried to talk about anything at allthe weather, a book Id readhe only responded with empty sounds.

Mm. Yeah. Right.

Then his phone buzzed again.

He grabbed it so fast his glass nearly tipped over. The moment he read the message, his face changed.

I have to go, he said immediately, standing.

I blinked, fork frozen halfway. Marcus we havent even ordered dessert.

Its work, he said, already reaching for his coat. Something crashed. A server issue. I need to handle it right now.

On our anniversary?

Im sorry, Nora. His voice softened just slightly, but his movements didnt slow. He placed money on the table without looking at me. Ill make it up to you. Take a cab home. I love you.

And just like that, he was gone.

The words I love you lingered in the air long after his presence disappeared.

The waiter approached hesitantly. Maam should I bring the next course?

No, I answered quietly. Just the bill.

The house was dark when I returned.

I thought Id be alone.

But as I stepped into the living room, I stopped cold.

Cassie was sprawled across the couch, her red dress wrinkled, makeup smudged, laughing loudly as if the world was spinning with her. An almost empty bottle of tequila sat on the table.

And Marcushe was kneeling beside her.

Not at work.

Not fixing anything.

Fixing her.

He wiped her face gently with a cloth, careful and patient, like she was something fragile.

Youre a mess, he said softly, almost fondly. I told you not to go out like that.

I just wanted to have fun, she giggled, reaching out to touch his face.

He caught her hand and pressed a kiss into her palm.

Then he saw me.

His body stiffened. He stood up quickly, putting space between them as if that would erase what I had just seen.

Nora, he said too fast. II got a call. She was drunk at a bar. The bartender used her phone. I had to pick her up. It was urgent.

So that was the emergency.

Not work. Not anything real.

Her.

She called, and he came running.

I stood still. I see.

Im sorry about dinner, he added quickly, stepping toward me. I was just about to

I walked past him without stopping.

No shouting. No tears. No reaction he could use.

Its fine, I said quietly. Im tired.

I went straight into the bedroom, closed the door, and locked it behind me.

Leaning against it, I listened to his voice outsidelow, soft, telling her to quiet down, helping her up, guiding her toward the guest room like she belonged there.

My phone vibrated.

One email.

From Simon.

The divorce papers were ready.

Before I could breathe properly, another notification appeared.

Immigration Office.

Visa approved.

I stared at the screen, unmoving.

And for the first time that entire night, the tears that had been threatening to fall simply stopped coming.

It may take a bit more time for your body to fully recover, Mrs. Sinclair.

Dr. Carter spoke gently, her tone calm and clinical, but the words still felt heavy inside the bright, sterile examination room. I sat on the paper-covered bed, the thin sheet crackling every time I shifted.

The miscarriage you experienced was quite severe, she continued, scanning my file. Your hormones are still regulating. Stress plays a huge role in recovery. For now, you need restno pressure, no rushing into another pregnancy.

I lowered my shoulders, letting myself look smaller, then pressed my hands over my face. A broken sob slipped out on cue. It wasnt difficult anymore. The grief was real enoughalways there, buried deep in my bonesbut what I showed them was carefully controlled.

Oh, Nora Marcus murmured immediately, pulling me closer. His voice softened into something almost tender. Its alright, baby, he whispered, pressing a kiss to the crown of my head. Dont cry. We still have time. All the time we need.

He turned to the doctor with that practiced concern. Thank you, Doctor. Ill make sure she rests properly. Ill take care of her.

Shes fortunate to have you, Dr. Carter replied warmly, smiling at him.

I shut my eyes against his chest as that word landed againfortunate.

If only she knew the truth. That the same man holding me so gently was the reason my body had been breaking down in the first place. The reason I could barely breathe in this house without feeling like I was drowning in it.

That night, the Sinclair estate was dressed in quiet luxury, but the air felt anything but peaceful.

Marcuss mother carefully cut into her food, her movements precise. So, she said coolly, not even looking up, what did the doctor say? When will we finally see an heir in this family?

I kept my eyes on my plate, absently moving a piece of food around with my fork just to look occupied.

Mother, Marcus warned immediately, his tone sharp but controlled.

His father set his glass down with a dull clink. Its a fair question, he said flatly. The trust conditions are clear, Marcus. A stable marriage. An heir. Your grandfather wants to see a grandchild before he passes. If theres no child He didnt finish the sentence, but he didnt need to.

The message was obvious.

Were doing everything we can, Marcus said, squeezing my hand under the table. His grip was firmalmost too firm. But Nora needs time. She went through a loss. We both did.

Time doesnt stop obligations, his mother replied with a faint scoff. And honestly, Nora, youre not getting any younger. If you hadnt been careless

Enough.

Marcuss chair scraped loudly as he stood. The sudden force in his voice silenced the table.

You will not speak to her like that, he said, his words shaking with controlled anger. I dont care about the inheritance. I dont care about the trust. I care about my wife.

He looked between them, jaw tight. If you bring this up again, were leaving.

Then he turned to me, his expression softening instantly. Are you alright, Mo?

I nodded slightly. Thank you, I whispered. Im okay.

Then were done here, he said.

Before anyone could respond, he pulled me up and guided me out, his arm firm around my waist as if shielding me from them.

In the car, his anger hadnt fully cooled.

Im sorry about them, he muttered, gripping the wheel tightly. Theyre unbearable. Id choose you over all of itmoney, inheritance, everything.

I know, I replied softly. Youre good, Marcus.

A liar sitting beside another liar.

When we got home, music was already echoing through the living room.

Cassie was there again.

She was stretched out near the indoor pool that opened into the house, wearing a bright neon bikini that left little to imagination. Her hair was wet, droplets falling onto the expensive carpet while she lazily sipped a drink like she owned the place.

I stopped at the doorway.

Something inside me finally snappednot loudly, but cleanly.

When is she leaving this house? I asked, voice steady and cold.

Cassie glanced up with fake surprise. Oh, youre home early.

I asked you something, I said, shifting my gaze to Marcus. When is she leaving? Its been months.

Her expression crumpled into practiced innocence. Wait you dont want me here anymore? Nora, did I do something wrong?

I dont like her walking around like that, I said sharply, gesturing at her. Its inappropriate. It looks like shes trying to get your attention, Marcus.

He let out a short, uneasy laugh. What? Nora, no. Shes practically family.

Shes not your family, I shot back. And shes definitely not mine. She drinks here, she disrespects me, and she walks around like this in my home. Im done tolerating it.

Then I turned to him fully.

Choose, Marcus, I said quietly. Her or me. I wont live like this anymore.

Without waiting for a response, I walked straight to the bedroom.

He followed immediately, slamming the door behind him.

What was that? he demanded. Have you lost your mind? Throwing her out like that? She has nowhere else to go!

She has a brother, I said, removing my earrings slowly. She can go to Nathan.

Youre being unreasonable, he paced behind me. Is this jealousy? Seriously? Youre jealous of a twenty-two-year-old girl?

Im jealous, I snapped, turning on him, that my husband cares more about her comfort than his own wifes pain. I just lost a baby, Marcus, and I come home to that circus in my living room?

He stopped pacing.

For a moment, silence stretched between us.

Then his expression shiftedsofter, calmer. He exhaled and walked toward me, taking my hands gently.

Youre right, he said quietly. Im sorry. I didnt realize how it looked from your side. Ive just been overwhelmed.

He kissed my knuckles. But kicking her out like that tonight wasnt fair. Its late, Nora. And shes still young she doesnt think things through.

She doesnt respect me, I muttered.

She does, he insisted quickly. Shes just immature. Please just apologize, alright? For me. Ill handle her clothes, I promise. But dont turn this into a fight with Nathans sister. Hes my best friend.

I went still for a moment.

Then I whispered, Fine.

That night, Marcus fell asleep almost instantly, exhausted from the weight of his lies.

I stayed awake.

For a long time, I didnt move.

Then, quietly, I slipped out of bedcareful not to wake himand began preparing something he would never forget.

The ballroom felt stifling, like the air itself had turned heavy. Crystal chandeliers spilled light over the guests below, glittering against diamonds and polished smiles. The scent of lilies mixed with expensive perfume and old wealth, wrapping everything in a polished illusion. It was the Sinclair familys nightcelebrating a merger that would secure their empire for years to come.

I stood near the champagne tower, holding a glass of sparkling water I hadnt touched once. My midnight blue gown fit perfectly, my smile practiced enough that my cheeks were starting to ache.

Nora!

The voice cut through the polite hum of conversation. I turned just as Nathan made his way toward me, confident and loud as ever. Cassies brother. Marcuss best friend. Recently back from Dubai, still carrying that sun-tanned, slightly reckless energy.

Nathan, I greeted, and for once it was genuine. I had always liked him. He was blunt, sometimes too muchbut at least he didnt hide behind polished lies.

He pulled me into a tight hug. Good to see you, Mo. You look incredible as always. He let go and immediately clapped Marcus on the shoulder, who had appeared beside me without me noticing. And youlucky bastard. Still managing to outkick your coverage, huh?

Marcus laughed, raising his glass to Nathan. Every single time.

Nathans expression shifted slightly, becoming more serious. By the way, I wanted to thank you. For looking after Cassie while I was gone. I know she can be a lot.

Oh, it was nothing, Marcus replied quickly, a bit too quick. His smile tightened. Shes been fine. Very well-behaved, actually.

I took a slow sip of water, hiding the faintest smirk. Well-behaved?

Actually, I said lightly, almost conversational, its been nice seeing her like that. She seems really happy these days. I think having a boyfriend has done wonders for her.

Everything around us seemed to pause.

Nathan blinked. Boyfriend?

I felt Marcus stiffen beside me before I even looked at him.

What boyfriend? Nathan asked, confusion creeping into his voice. She didnt mention anyone. Who is he?

Oh, I said, tilting my head as if I were thinking. I assumed you knew. Shes out most nights lately. I havent met him, but she seems really invested in it.

Is that right? Nathans jaw tightened as his gaze drifted across the ballroom. Then he spotted Cassie near the dessert table, laughing with a cluster of guests. Excuse me.

He walked off, purposefully, toward her.

Nora, Marcus hissed the moment Nathan was out of range. His fingers dug into my arm. What the hell was that?

I gently pulled my arm free, meeting his stare with wide-eyed innocence. What? I thought he already knew. You said they were close.

You know he didnt know, he snapped, his voice low but sharp. His face had gone red, tension pulsing at his temple. Why would you say something like that? Hes going to interrogate her now. If she slips

Im sorry, I said softly, lowering my gaze. I didnt mean it like that. I just it came out wrong.

Damn it, Nora, he muttered, dragging a hand through his hair. You know how strict Nathan is. Thats why Cassie acted out beforewhy she spiraled. Shes finally stable again, and now youre stirring things up.

Across the room, I could see it escalating. Nathan had reached Cassie. His gestures were sharp, his voice clearly rising. Cassies earlier laughter had vanished, replaced by stiff, uneasy movements. Heads were turning.

Cassie is freaking out, Marcus said under his breath, watching them closely. I need to fix this before she says something she shouldnt.

He shot me one last warning look. Dont move. Dont talk to anyone.

Then he left.

I watched him gowatched him step between them, calming Nathan, leaning in to murmur something to Cassie that made her visibly tense. Always managing. Always balancing both sides of his carefully constructed life.

That was my cue.

I set my glass down on a passing tray without a word.

No goodbyes. No hesitation. I simply turned and walked out.

The heavy doors of the ballroom opened, and cool night air hit my skin like something I hadnt felt in years.

Freedom.

I didnt call the limo. I flagged down a taxi at the curb.

Where to, maam? the driver asked.

Sinclair Estate, I replied.

The house was silent when I returned. Not peacefuljust empty in a way that felt like it had been waiting for me to leave it.

My suitcase was already packed and hidden deep inside the closet.

I changed quickly out of the gown into jeans and a soft sweater. One by one, I removed everything tied to himthe diamond earrings he had given me, then the wedding ring.

The ring landed on the nightstand.

Right beside a small velvet box.

Inside wasnt jewelry.

It was a USB drive.

Every photo I had taken. Every message I had saved. Every recorded conversationhis plans, his lies, the way they talked about using me for the inheritance and the truth about my baby.

Happy anniversary, Marcus.

I closed the box, grabbed my suitcase, and walked out without looking back.

I was already in the taxi, city lights streaking past like blurred memories, when my phone rang.

Marcus.

I stared at his name for a second longer than necessary, then answered.

Nora? His voice was breathless, edged with frustration. Where did you go? I turned around and you were gone.

Im sorry, I said softly, letting my voice waver just enough. I suddenly got a headache. It was too loud too bright. I felt dizzy. I didnt want to cause trouble, especially after what happened with Nathan and Cassie.

Oh. His tone shifted immediately, softening. The irritation melted into something more familiarcontrol disguised as concern. You shouldve told me. I wouldve taken you home.

I didnt want to ruin your night, I murmured. You were dealing with them.

Yeah thats handled now, he said with a sigh. Look, Im sorry I snapped earlier. I was just under pressure. You know how Nathan gets.

Its okay, I replied.

Are you home already? he asked. Im heading out. Ill be there in twenty.

My eyes drifted to the passing road sign.

International Departures C 5 Miles.

No, I said calmly. Megan called me. My friendthe one going through her divorce. Shes falling apart. Im on my way to her.

Tonight? he groaned. Nora, its late. Youre not even feeling well.

She needs me, I said. Im already in the cab.

He exhaled, clearly annoyed but trying to hide it. Fine. Just dont stay out too long. When are you coming back?

Soon, I said lightly. Dont worry. Ill be back before you even notice I left.

Alright. Call me when you get there.

I will.

A pause.

Ohand Marcus?

Yeah?

I left your anniversary gift in our room. On the nightstand. I know its late, but I think youll like it.

A gift? His tone brightened, almost pleased. You didnt have to do that, Mo.

I wanted to, I said softly. Its very personal. Youll understand me better after you see it.

He chuckled. Now Im curious. I love you, Nora.

See you, I replied.

The call ended.

I leaned back against the seat, watching the city blur into streaks of light.

I couldnt wait for him to open it.