Beyond the Divorce

Chapter 4 The Truth Hurts

I hurried back to the bedroom and answered the call to complain, “You’re something else, huh? You left me hanging!”

“Something came up at work, so I was in a rush.” Ivanna sounded tired. “I just finished settling it. That’s why I’m calling you now. Why are you complaining? Do you think my life is as easy as yours?”

I hesitated to reply but couldn’t hold back and asked her, “Um, you mentioned seeing Matthew two days ago. Where was he? What time was it?”

This question had been bugging me all day.

Ivanna paused on the other end before she answered calmly, “Honestly, I forgot the exact location. It was just a fleeting glimpse while I was driving.”

“Oh.” For some reason, her answer left me a bit disappointed. Although my heart dropped, I unclenched my fists and realized my palms were cold and sweaty. I chuckled and wondered whether or not I wanted to prove Matthew was having an affair.

admit he was my everything, and I feared losing

realize how obsessed you are with your husband. You seem to light up whenever I mention Matthew. Can’t you

on being Matthew’s accessory for the rest of your life. I think you’re becoming a fool. You seem completely disconnected from the outside world because

and sighed. “Matthew

him, and whatever he says goes. Will you jump off a cliff if he says

jinx! Matthew will never sell me!” I retorted.

Ivanna sneered disdainfully. “The truth hurts sometimes, but you must have values. Your life shouldn’t

if he cares about you. How can you keep his interest if all you do is stay home and do chores? Let me ask you something. Besides your child and husband, do you even

had no time

her tone. “Chloe, I want to see your confident and radiant self again. You used to be a top student, my superstar! I just think it’s a shame to

is like giving me a pat on the back after slapping me. I don’t know who got on your nerves, but

both laughed when

mind. Although she had mentioned similar things before, hearing them again today felt different. I didn’t know why I felt flustered and wondered if Ivanna was trying

walked in with

have your dinner.” Then she lowered her voice and advised, “Consider what I said. Take my