Beyond the Divorce

Ivanna's revelations about Michelle's recent "job" truly surprised me.

"Really?" I asked in astonishment. "Back in our school days, she was always obsessed with vanity, constantly getting guys to buy her food. That part still rings true."

"And now," Ivanna continued, "she's hooked up with a rural entrepreneur that owns a fish farm."

Hearing Ivanna's words made me laugh hard. "So, was the fish pond you mentioned earlier true?"

Ivanna looked disdainful and rolled her eyes. "Of course! Would I lie? Whenever they're together, she organizes these class reunions. But people have complaints. And Michelle isn't the only one. I've heard there are several others."

I shook my head with a wry smile, somewhat nostalgic, and said, "She's a real warrior."

Ivanna exclaimed in frustration. "Exactly! Fearless even of diseases. It seems she targeted you today by arranging this gathering. She probably noticed you're doing well. So, she wanted to freeload off your generosity. Ugh... what a piece of work."

a car's headlights in the not-so-distant parking lot suddenly come on, heading toward the entrance. I knew it had to be Atlas's

and said, "You go ahead. I'm heading home,

at Ivanna with concern. "Are you sure you're okay on your own? How about I come with you, and tomorrow morning, we can go

He's here to pick you up. You better get going. Don't throw me

adding, "Alright, you wait for me tomorrow morning, and we'll go for a checkup

waved dismissively. She walked away, heading to

car when we came because Atlas had mentioned he had a prior engagement and would pick me

others had already followed. She stood next to me, looking

why haven't you left yet?"

bottom of the stairs. He opened the car door and

exclaimed, "Chloe, is he...