ManyWriters

A severe storm brought the city to a standstill, leaving me stranded in an elevator for the entire night. Despite my best efforts, I couldn't reach my spouse Jack Stirke on his mobile.
As my fear of enclosed spaces nearly overwhelmed me, my phone suddenly displayed a message from Jack: "Swamped at the moment, talk to you soon."
Trembling, I attempted to dial emergency services but accidentally glimpsed a social media update from Jack's subordinate, Lily Casley: "My supervisor arrives at my beck and call. How fortunate I am~" with Jack mentioned.
In the past, I would have been furious.
This time, however, I simply removed both of them from my contacts and social media, then called for assistance.
I arrived home looking disheveled and left the separation documents without uttering a word. Meanwhile, Jack was desperately searching for me everywhere.
He was begging on his knees, saying, "Jen, I'll do whatever it takes to earn your forgiveness!"
I merely chuckled and replied, "Then end your life."

Stranded in Betrayal, A Night of Truth and Storms

The firm allowed us to leave early due to the impending thunderstorm.


While my colleagues rushed out, I lingered to finish some tasks.


"No thanks, my spouse is coming. You should go, Sarah."


I grinned, declining Sarah's proposal, and instinctively reached for my phone.


There was a notification from Jack sent at midday. "Remain at work, don't leave."


I realized Jack was attempting to make things right.


A couple of weeks ago, I got sick from contaminated food after a social gathering. When I phoned Jack for transport to the medical center, he instructed me to stay where I was, sounding worried, but never arrived.


Eventually, I lost consciousness and was brought to the hospital by a compassionate stranger.


As this Good Samaritan was settling my medical expenses, I noticed Jack at the front desk consoling his aide, Lily.


Lily appeared sickly and was leaning on him for support, and Jack seemed startled as he held her close.


However, he quickly composed himself upon seeing me.


"Jen, why are you here?" he inquired, taken aback.


I laughed sarcastically, "Where else would I be?"


He immediately became defensive and berated me in public, "Are you spying on me? Suspecting infidelity? Lily's just unwell and needed assistance."


Before I could reply, he hurried Lily into the examination area, abandoning me, "Stop making a fuss, just go home!"


It occurred to him later that I hadn't been to our house in over a fortnight.


Previously, I would've justified his actions before he explained, convincing myself of his affection.


But this instance, I neither sought reconciliation nor made excuses for his behavior.


I checked the clock, prepared to depart.


But just as I entered, the lights began to flicker before going completely out.


The lift plummeted, and I steadied myself against the wall, silently praying.


It finally halted, and I attempted to call Jack multiple times, but his line was constantly engaged.


I sent him frantic messages, hoping for rescue.


Crouched in the corner, I struggled to breathe, my respiration quick and shallow.


For a moment, I feared this might be my demise.


After what seemed like forever, my tightly clutched phone buzzed. It was a message from Jack, all matter-of-fact.


Chapter 2