Part 2After my wife took a trip with her first love, I decided to get a divorce.

The moment those words left my mouth, Madeline’s fury erupted.

“Ethan Vaughn, what did you just say? Repeat it, I dare you! Do you want me to divorce you?”

This wasn’t the first time she’d used divorce as a threat.

It was her go-to move, no matter how small the argument.

In the past, I always caved. I’d apologize, take the blame, and do whatever it took to smooth things.

I thought that if I compromised enough, we’d eventually find happiness.

But things never worked out that way.

I took a deep breath, lifted my drink, and said calmly, “Alright. Let’s get divorced.”

Then I hung up and turned off my phone.

My friends stared at me, stunned.

“Why are you all frozen? Let’s toast—to my freedom!”

That broke the tension. Laughter filled the room as they raised their glasses with me.

The drinks flowed, and I felt truly happy for the first time in years.

Back at home, I collapsed into bed, the buzz of alcohol and freedom making me smile.

For years, my life revolved around Madeline’s demands. She controlled everything, and I let her.

I gave up smoking and drinking for her. I handed over my entire paycheck every month. I cooked, cleaned, and ran our household so she could play “princess.”

But somewhere along the way, she forgot she wasn’t royalty.

When I woke up the following day, loud banging echoed through the apartment.

At first, I thought someone was renovating. But as the sound continued, I realized someone was at my door.

I didn’t need to guess who.

I took my time, pouring a glass of water as the voices outside grew louder.

“Ethan Vaughn, open this door right now!” Dolly Carter’s sharp tone cut through the noise.

“How dare you cancel the Postpartum Care Center and the hospital appointments? Are you even human?”

Her voice grated on my nerves, but I was used to it. Whenever Madeline and I had even the slightest fight, her parents would rush over to scold me.

When I finally opened the door, I was greeted by their furious faces.

Without waiting for an invitation, they pushed past me into the apartment.

“You better fix this immediately!” Dolly demanded. “Madeline’s coming home tonight, and everything needs to be in place.”

“Is she bringing Travis Reese back with her?” I asked coolly.

“What are you implying? Madeline’s coming back alone. Stop spreading nonsense!” Dolly shot back defensively.

“Oh, and I heard you got a $15,000 bonus at work,” Walt added. “When’s Madeline getting that?”

I let out a small laugh, shaking my head. It was going to be a long day.

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