ManyWriters

In the third year of our marriage, I discovered I was pregnant. With my husband away on a business trip in another state, I had no choice but to go to the hospital for a check-up alone.
Little did I expect to see my supposedly out-of-town husband outside the examination room, fingers intertwined with his pure love.
I dialed his number once more. He answered, lowering his voice in irritation:
"Faye, are you incapable of understanding English? How many times do I have to tell you I'm in a meeting! A meeting!"
"You may be blind, but you're not deaf!"
A wave of sorrow washed over me as I slowly spoke:
"Where's this meeting? What kind of meeting?"
"If you're sick, go to the hospital. Stop acting crazy here."
He rudely hung up the phone, then turned to Pure Love's inquiry with a gentle smile.
"Just a blind woman. She's nothing compared to you."
The moment he turned and our eyes met, River's smile froze on his face.

Love's Withered Bloom

River clenched his fists in rage, his eyes blazing like roaring flames.


"Faye, if you're angry, take it out on me. What right do you have to hit River..."


Before Serenity could finish, I raised my hand and slapped her too. The handprints on both their faces were clearly visible.


Without lingering, I dragged my leaden feet away, each step feeling like wading through a quicksand that drained all my strength.


"Faye!" River's furious roar came from behind. He clenched his fists, his entire body trembling.


"While I still have patience, come back and apologize. Otherwise, once you're out that door, don't blame me for not giving you a chance."


Ignoring his words, I walked out the door.


The marriage I chose, of course, I alone could choose to give up.


I scheduled the earliest abortion appointment possible.


After composing myself, I called my grandmother.


Goodbye, River. This time, we truly have no chance left.


Chapter 6