Beyond the Divorce

Arnold leaned out of the car and shouted, "Let's go. Ava just called. She's anxious to have us back!"

I was relieved. This was the perfect opportunity to excuse myself. I apologetically told Michelle, "I need to go. Ava's waiting for us. I'll definitely come to the reunion tomorrow. See you then!"

Michelle seemed unsatisfied. After all, I hadn't introduced Atlas to her. She stepped forward, looking at Atlas, and introduced herself. "Hello, I'm Chloe's classmate. We're very close."

She reached out a hand to Atlas, eyes filled with anticipation.

Atlas didn't bother to extend his hand and just nodded slightly without saying a word. He was very cool toward her.

When she saw Atlas's indifference, Michelle quickly withdrew her hand and turned to me. "You can bring your kid to the reunion tomorrow, Chloe. You have the oldest child among all our classmates. Let's all meet and catch up. It's a rare occasion, after all."

She said this while still staring at Atlas, obviously directing her words at him.

Before leaving, she added, "You're way ahead of the game. None of us have even had our weddings, and you're already divorced with grown-up kids. I'm jealous."

She eagerly pried into my personal history in front of Atlas, assuming that didn't know about my embarrassing past.

Atlas raised his eyes, casting a cold and icy look at Michelle. The gleam in his eyes cut off whatever she was about to say.

She awkwardly chuckled, "Okay then. See you tomorrow, rain or shine."

you tomorrow. Let's

car door for me, settled me in, and then got in himself. The two cars drove

standing in the distance, gazing at

Ava was throwing a little tantrum as she was hungry and impatient. She ran toward us when she saw

car, she pouted and rushed into Atlas's arms. "Why did you guys take so long, Daddy? I'm

voice was like honey and would intoxicate anyone who heard

her up, looking at

rosy face."

away. Then you can look at

Uncle Arnold bought for you and your

confirming my earlier suspicion that she and Atlas had some

it," Atlas said proudly. "Now, let's

then turned to Arnold. "It's

е

"You ungrateful little thing! You said

both of you! After dinner, I'll play with Uncle Arnold while