Beyond the Divorce

Chapter 2 A Substantial Amount of Information

I was about to pick up the phone to see who the sender was when Matthew hurried into the room and took the phone. He glanced at it hastily, then looked back at me.

“It’s Mel!”

“What’s the matter? Are you afraid that I’ll find something?” I looked at him suspiciously and felt uneasy as if something was wrong.

The message had only four words. “Did she find out?”

It was enough for me because it implied the other person feared I’d find out about something. The message also showed a hint of ambiguity, so I scrutinized Matthew. My gut feeling surged as my premonition grew heavier.

Matthew chuckled casually and threw the phone back on the bedside table. Then he pulled me into his arms and kissed my lips, saying, “You’re overthinking! It’s not about you, but my sister, Mel. She’s using me as a cover to scam Mom for money.”

Mel was Matthew’s younger sister, Melanie Murphy. She had been weak and sickly since childhood, so her family always pampered and spoiled her. She also behaved like a rich brat.

twenties but never took anything seriously. She didn’t even go to school and only traveled, ate, and

for money? Where do you think her money comes

my earlobe as he approached the bathroom. “Yeah, yeah, it’s all

I appreciated his words.

I believed a harmonious family led to success in all endeavors. I also believed in treating

and grievances. It made me happy and content as I lay in

a good school district again, which had become a pressing matter for me. We had lived in this small 500-square-foot apartment since we got married. The size didn’t bother me, but I

had saved money for a new house

best location in the fast-developing city so we wouldn’t

Instead, he patted my shoulder, kissed my forehead,

I fell asleep

the following day, I received a call from my best friend, Irvanna, saying she wanted to

immediately responded and

but it was rare for her to call me. After all, she was a busy woman who worked as a talent manager

her sitting in the corner, typing away on her laptop. The morning sun cast a peaceful