We were both at risk of losing a pregnancy. For me, he had nothing but blame and impatience. For Julie, he gave every ounce of worry and devotion he possessed.
Through the blinding pain, hatred kept me conscious. I dragged my phone closer and dialed emergency services, then called my attorney.
"Draw up a divorce agreement. And hire someone to investigate Piers Stephens." My voice trembled, but it did not waver. "One week. That's all I need to take everything he has."
The ambulance arrived in time. The baby survived.
I spent three days in the hospital. It wasn't until the day I was discharged that I received a call from Piers.
"You've had your little tantrum long enough, haven't you? There's a reception tonight. You're coming with me."
So that was it. Three days of complete silence, and he'd assumed I was sulking. That the cold shoulder was deliberate punishment for my so-called rebellion.
I wanted to refuse, but the hostess, Mrs. Xu, had been one of my mother's closest friends. I couldn't not go.
At the reception, Piers played his usual role to perfection, intercepting every glass of wine offered my way. The women around us practically swooned.