She slipped into our lives like smoke through a cracked window—a junior in Adrian's research group. At first, it was innocent. Academic discussions after class. Competition prep sessions.
Then meals.
Then walks home.
Adrian mentioned her casually at first. "She's hardworking. Real talent for medicine."
But her name started falling from his lips with increasing frequency. Like a song he couldn't stop humming.
"Fiona, Zoe is so clumsy sometimes. Still asks me about the simplest questions."
"Fiona, Zoe got a reservation at that exclusive Sichuan place. But your heart can't handle spice, so I'm not taking you."
"Fiona..."
He eventually left that project group.
Because I forced him to.
Now, staring at the empty apartment, I printed a fresh copy of the divorce agreement. My hand didn't shake as I signed it. I left it on the living room table where he couldn't miss it, grabbed my luggage, and walked out.
Before shutting the door, I sent Adrian a text.
*The divorce papers are on the table. Refuse to sign, and I'll see you in court.*
By the time my parents called, I had already secured a rental. I answered via video. My mother's background was the very apartment they had bought me before the marriage.