Beyond the Divorce

Atlas noticed my anxious demeanor and comforted me with a pat on the back. "You can sleep first. I'll see who it is."

He got up, put on his slippers, and approached the door. I couldn't help but wonder who could be visiting so late at night. After all, we hadn't lived here for quite some time. While contemplating, I got out of bed and straightened my sleepwear before leaving the bedroom.

When I reached the landing, I peeked downstairs and saw Atlas opening the door. A figure then entered with a bottle of alcohol. It was Oliver. His lean silhouette appeared even more frail in the dim light. He looked desolated.

Oliver forced a bitter smile when he saw Atlas, asking, "You're still awake?"

Atlas walked into the living room and said indifferently, "How can I sleep if you ring the bell like that? Why are you here?"

I felt a pang of pity for Oliver. The once prominent figure had fallen so far. His former grace and eloquence were non-existent. I suspected he had lost his nightly destination when the doctor discharged Lauren from the hospital.

Oliver seemed lost without her, resorting to alcohol to drown his sorrows. Perhaps he had followed us to Amethyst Apartments. Otherwise, he wouldn't have known we were here.

was about to return to the room, I overheard Oliver mumbling, "What, did I disturb you? I came to drink with you. Is

hour?"

you drink?" Oliver sounded

How did

you were having dinner with

downstairs and saw him holding the bottle

one wanted to drink with me. Some people...aren't suitable to drink with. You... You're my

Atlas went to the liquor cabinet, poured a glass and returned to the living room When he sat

sip. "Atlas, how can

Atlas looking at him. "That depends on your intentions. If it's not