Jane was an old colleague we'd built the company with over the years, but she couldn't compete with a few words from the secretary.
I couldn't help feeling disappointed, though I'd grown accustomed to his letdowns.
I called a familiar company and recommended Jane.
After a brief text exchange with her, I returned to packing my things.
I hung the branded clothes I had to sell as secondhand. The ones that wouldn't sell, I just tossed.
The pajamas Sophie had worn went straight into the trash.
When I was done, I had only one suitcase left.
As soon as I wheeled it out, Ethan returned, eyeing the luggage with surprise.
"You're leaving?"
I went along with his assumption, "Going on a business trip in a couple of days."
He nodded, unsuspecting.
"Good timing. Sophie's old rental is up soon. I'll have her stay here for a few days."
"She's stayed before, so you shouldn't mind, right?"
This man was truly fake. He'd already made his decision but still pretended to ask for my permission.
If I disagreed, he'd use that word against me again to put me down.
"Sure, let her stay," I said flatly.
"But the guest room is dark, not ideal for her. She can take the master bedroom. I'll tidy it up for her."