ManyWriters

In my third year of matrimony with Ethan Williams, his former sweetheart unexpectedly resurfaced in our lives, now working as a humble retail assistant.
Ethan, filled with compassion for her unfortunate circumstances, acquired the entire establishment as a "reunion present."
His extravagant act became the talk of our social circle. Meanwhile, I, his spouse, became the subject of ridicule—Mrs. Williams, the naive fool.
I remained silent. Instead, I dispatched a courteous floral arrangement to the newly acquired store. Then, dressed in somber attire, I visited his sibling's final resting place to release my anguish.
"Ethan," I murmured, my tears dampening the stone, "I've discovered a means to escape your brother's grip. Though he shares your gaze, he's a different person entirely."
My words lingered in the silence, laden with sorrow, until a recognizable voice behind me inquired: "What on earth did you just say?"

Graveyard Whispers and Store-Bought Love

Understanding the agony of chemo, I went to great lengths to purchase the finest cake in town. As I made my way back to the medical center, the vehicle was filled with the delightful aroma of sweet icing. I grinned, picturing Zoe taking a taste—hoping it might boost her mood, even if only momentarily.


However, upon entering her room with the cake, I found the bed unoccupied.


An unsettling feeling of unease washed over me.


Had she discovered I'd failed to keep my word about staying away? Was she trying to punish me by disappearing?


I attempted to rationalize my actions. My only intention was to bring her a cake, to compensate for all the birthdays I'd neglected. Throughout our five-year relationship, I never properly celebrated her special day.


Each year, I'd stumble home intoxicated, oblivious to her hesitant demeanor, as she silently offered me soup to ease my inevitable hangover.


Chapter 12