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I wanted to see her while I still looked okay.
She arrived as I finished my coffee and dove right in.“Why’d you call me out?”
My nose stung, and tears threatened as I choked out,“Mom.”
She assumed I was fighting with Nathan.
“Couples argue sometimes, but things usually work themselves out. It’s not a big deal.”
“It’s a shame you haven’t had a child yet. Nathan and his family must be getting impatient.”
I shook my head.“No,Mom,it’s not that.I’m si—”
I stopped,not wanting to worry her.
“You can’t have kids?”
“Then divorce Nathan sooner rather than later.”
Her words stung.I looked up,stunned.
Her phone rang.A frail,whiny girl’s voice came through.
“Mommy,I’m burning up.Why are you out?Come back,I’m so sick…”
Mom’s face softened, and her voice dripping with concern.“Sweetie,Mommy’s bad.I’m coming now.Take your meds,okay?”
She glanced at me,sheepish.“Listen,if you can’t have kids, then divorce.Don’t hold Nathan back.”
She grabbed her bag,pausing without turning around.
“You’re almost thirty.Stop bugging me.I’ve got your sister to look after.”
Tears slid down my face as I nodded.
Mom,don’t worry.I won’t bother you again.
Exhausted,I returned to our empty mansion,lifeless and cold.
Curling up on the couch,I stared into space.
Every corner held memories of Nathan and me.
He didn’t like maids,saying they’d ruin our intimacy,so I quit my job to be a full-time housewife,tending to his every need and supporting his career.
Everyone called me the perfect wife.
He’d hug me,grinning,“Babe,you’re the best.”
I fell asleep,dreaming of our life—from meeting Nathan to our marriage.
When I woke,it was dark, and a blanket was draped over me.
My heart leaped,then settled.
Nathan was back.Only we had keys.
Upstairs,the study rustled.
Nathan came down,holding a glass.
“Awake?”
I nodded,moving to get him water,but dizziness sent me crashing back.
He stepped closer,concerned.“You okay?”
I shook my head.“Fine.Just a liitle hungry.”
“Nathan,I miss your noodles.”
“Alright, just wait there.”
