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.

was my everything,

whenever I mention Matthew. Can’t you prioritize yourself more? Since Ava is already in kindergarten, you should do something for

fool. You seem completely disconnected from the outside world because Matthew is the only person in yours,” Ivanna mocked

and sighed. “Matthew

said this, Matthew said that. Was I wrong to say you’re obsessed with him? Your life revolves around him, and whatever he says goes. Will you jump off a cliff if he says so? Will you

Matthew will

never sell you, but I will!” Ivanna sneered disdainfully. “The truth hurts sometimes, but you must have values. Your life shouldn’t

home and do chores? Let me ask you something. Besides your child and husband, do you even know

and I had no time

I want to see your confident and radiant self again. You used to be a top student, my superstar!

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

both laughed when I said that.

spoke her mind. Although she had mentioned similar things before, hearing them again today felt different. I didn’t know why I felt

knocked on the door and walked in with

go have your dinner.” Then she lowered her voice and advised, “Consider what I said. Take my words to heart, and don’t get blinded by the shining things