Beyond the Divorce

The three of us drove to Arkadia and headed straight to the children's department.

The girls' section was filled with a dazzling array of items. Arnold was overwhelmed and fluttered around, exclaiming at every item. He insisted that he wanted to buy everything. Ultimately, I took charge and picked out two dresses and a pile of accessories. After all, Ava had a lot of clothes already, and I couldn't possibly buy her everything. Whenever Atlas went abroad, he would usually return with a whole set of clothes, dressing her from head to toe.

She would even receive gifts from Ivanna, Lauren, Rose, Ryan, and Carol and Eleanor.

Her dressing rooms were like little stores, overflowing with items.

Whenever I tried to stop them, they all said the same thing.

"Daughters are meant to be spoiled."

I was both helpless and speechless.

This time, Atlas bought art supplies for Jenny while Arnold shopped for toys for Myra's child and Charlie. After more than an hour of shopping, we had quite a haul.

Arnold urged us to hurry home so Ava wouldn't have to wait long.

The three of us carried our bags of purchases and left the store. In the lobby on the first floor, Atlas encountered the manager of the jewelry store, who briefed him on the recent situation. Arnold said, "Wait for me when we get to the entrance. I'll get the car."

We walked to the entrance together, and Arnold left to get his car while I waited for Atlas and the driver.

soon as we stepped out of Arkadia's main

out to us from a distance. "I texted you, Chloe. Why

puzzled. "You

quickly toward us with her

I don't really check my messages, so

didn't look

said we'd text. I've already organized the class reunion, and if I hadn't bumped

it?"

The Aviary. Don't forget," she reminded me.

quickly nodded, responding, "Got

forget to be there," Michelle said. She suddenly noticed the pile of shopping bags at my feet.

bought

disbelief. "Damn,

waste time

Sure enough, she immediately

"I knew