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."

nodded. "See you tomorrow. Let's

Atlas and I walked toward our cars. Atlas, a gentleman, opened the car door for me, settled me

rearview mirror, I saw Michelle standing in the

a little tantrum as she was hungry and impatient. She ran toward us

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

honey and would intoxicate anyone

looking at

rosy face."

away. Then you can

Uncle Arnold bought for

the drawing board I wanted?" She asked earnestly, confirming my earlier suspicion that she and Atlas had

especially for you. You'll love it," Atlas said proudly.

then turned to Arnold. "It's dinner time, Uncle

е

little thing! You said you missed your uncle. Is

missed Daddy too!" Ava explained. "I missed both of you! After dinner, I'll play with Uncle Arnold while