07

7

The evening came, but Dashiell didn't return home or call.

I scrolled aimlessly through my phone, constantly refreshing for local news updates.

Instead, I stumbled upon her news story that twisted the truth.

In the news, Dashiell was wearing a hospital gown, sitting in the hospital hallway, tearfully recounting to reporters:

"I know it was my husband who did this, but I've never been unfaithful to him.

"He's been cheating for a long time. I know of at least four women he's involved with.

"He doesn't give me any money for living expenses and he beats me and our child.

"Eventually, I couldn't take it anymore. He told me I could have affairs too, that we should live separate lives, but I shouldn't bother him, ask him for money, or file for divorce. We've been apart for three years now.