Chapter 1
My husband thought I had grabbed the microphone to congratulate him on his promotion. Then I placed the divorce papers beside his champagne and asked his pregnant assistant to stand up.
The private dining room in downtown Chicago was filled with my husband’s coworkers.
Everyone had come to celebrate Daniel becoming vice president.
He was smiling like it was the greatest night of his life.
I sat beside him quietly while people toasted his success.
“None of this would’ve happened without my beautiful wife,” Daniel said, raising his glass toward me.
Everyone applauded.
I smiled.
Three days earlier, I had found messages between Daniel and his assistant, Ashley.
Hotel reservations.
Photos.
And one message that kept me awake all night.
“I can’t hide the pregnancy much longer.”
Daniel kissed my cheek.
“Say something, babe.”
So I stood up.
I walked toward the microphone.
Daniel leaned back proudly.
“I actually prepared a surprise for Daniel tonight.”
His coworkers cheered.
Daniel grinned.
“You didn’t have to do that.”
“Oh, I think I did.”
I reached into my purse and pulled out a folder.
“Congratulations on your promotion, sweetheart.”
I placed the papers in front of him.
His smile disappeared.
“What is this?”
“Divorce papers.”
The room went completely silent.
Daniel stared at me.
“Emily, what the hell are you doing?”
“I’m giving you the freedom you’ve apparently wanted for the last eleven months.”
Ashley immediately looked down at her plate.
I turned toward her.
“Don’t be shy, Ashley.”
Daniel shot out of his chair.
“Emily, stop.”
I looked around the room.
“Since everyone here is celebrating Daniel’s new responsibilities, perhaps his assistant should tell you about the newest one.”
Ashley’s face turned white.
Daniel grabbed my wrist, but I pulled away.
“Your clothes are already packed and sitting outside our house.”
May you like
Then Ashley suddenly stood up with tears in her eyes.
But instead of apologizing, she looked directly at Daniel and whispered, “There’s something else your wife still doesn’t know.”
