In that heavy silence, I spoke again, my voice hoarse and cracked as I said, “I think we need some space. Let’s separate for a while and cool off.”
I thought he might agree.
But instead, he let out a tired sigh and said, “What about our daughter? How are you going to explain it to her? Elaine, it’s time to grow up. Sometimes being smart isn’t always a good thing. Think about the kid. Don’t be so stubborn.”
His words hit me like a truck.
My ears rang, and my mind went blank. I don’t even remember what I said back.
All I know was, before he left, he said, “I’ll stay at a hotel for now. Just tell our daughter I’m on a business trip, teaching at a university out of town.”
I didn't even remember how I got home.
Next thing I knew, I was sitting on the edge of my daughter’s bed, watching her sleep peacefully, so sweet and innocent.
And I was a mess inside.
Should I really give in?
For her sake, for our family’s sake, should I just pretend everything’s okay and accept Milton’s betrayal?
Was that really the right thing to do?
Even when I stepped out of her room, I still didn’t have an answer.
I was sitting on the couch in the living room, lost in thought, when my phone buzzed.