“Button? I called her Holly. She was running about all morning, obviously lost – then curled up at my feet. So I tucked her in the car to keep her warm, the poor thing,” the man smiled… “Tammy, how can you be so unlucky? How many times have I told you, Vicky’s not the right one for you!” her mother scolded Tamara. She stood, head bowed, and though she’d just turned thirty-seven, she felt like a schoolgirl who’d brought home a failing grade. Tamara’s heart ached for herself, her failed marriage, and her little daughter—especially now, with the magic of Christmas around the corner, and no father in their home. “I’m leaving you,” Victor muttered carelessly that evening. Tamara stared blankly, not comprehending, as she set down a fragrant bowl of stew. “Where are you going?” she asked automatically. Victor rolled his eyes, “You just don’t get serious things, Tammy. And that yappy dog of yours, and our daughter’s always ill. No romance, no spark. Just look at yourself! What have you become?” And with that, he began packing his bags. Sensing trouble, their little dog Button circled Tamara’s feet, whining to comfort her. “At least now I’ll finally get some rest from her barking,” Victor called from the door, hoisting his duffle. “But what about Eva?” Tamara whispered, imagining how their five-year-old would be devastated. “Sort it out, you’re her mother, after all!” he replied, and left to Button’s howls. Tamara sat at the kitchen table all night, clutching the dog, who licked her face gently, as if to say she understood something terrible was happening. For days, Tamara hid the truth from her mother and dodged questions about her job search. But finally, her mother visited—and Tamara broke down, admitting Victor had left days prior and the job offers weren’t coming. Her mother scowled, “It was obvious from the start: five years together, a child, and he never married you!” Still, she promised to help look after Eva when needed, though she’d never liked Button—the street pup Tamara had once rescued. Another week passed. Tamara started work at Eva’s nursery; Eva was delighted, but worried, “Mum, can we take Button too? Gran grumbles about walking her—maybe Button could guard us during nap time and help you wash dishes!” Eva beamed. Tamara would laugh and hug her daughter, though Eva’s next question always stung: “Mummy, will Daddy be home for Christmas?” Not wanting to break the truth, Tamara invented a business trip. Victor, when reached, urged her not to disturb his new ‘private life,’ and suggested she tell Eva he was a ‘super-spy on a top-secret mission.’ As New Year’s Eve crept closer, Tamara dreaded the holiday alone, unsure how to explain everything to Eva. One day, Eva’s grandmother took her to the doctor after she’d caught a cold. Around the corner, they bumped into Victor. “Daddy! You’re back!” Eva cried—but he awkwardly explained that he wouldn’t be living with them anymore and hurried away. That night, Eva’s temperature rose, and she stopped speaking, eating, or drinking. The doctor blamed stress. Then, another blow: Gran lost Button while walking her, accidentally letting her slip away without a leash. Eva stubbornly refused to eat, vowing, “I’ll only have dinner when Button comes back.” Tamara searched the streets every evening, growing desperate. On New Year’s Eve, with Eva still sick and heartbroken over her missing friend and absent father, Tamara tried to comfort her: “There’s no big tree, sweetheart, but we’ve got each other…” But Eva sobbed, “We need a real Christmas tree. Then Button will come home—just like in my dream!” Unable to afford a fresh tree, Tamara bundled up and dashed out into the snowy dusk. Passing cheerful families, she barely noticed them—frantically calling for Button, scouring every street. She stumbled upon a nearly empty Christmas tree lot. The last tree was unsold, guarded by a burly man in an old winter coat. “Last one left—two-for-one if you want it!” he called out. Flustered, Tamara admitted she couldn’t afford a tree, but dared to ask for leftover branches. The man, moved by her sad story, offered the branches—and then, impulsively, loaded the final tree onto his van, insisting on delivering it for free. When she climbed into the van, Tamara gasped—there on the seat, Button slept, snug in a woolly jumper. “Button? I called her Holly. She was running about lost this morning, then curled up at my feet. Couldn’t let the poor thing freeze, so I took her in,” the man smiled kindly. He introduced himself as Paul—a fellow animal lover, recently heartbroken himself. Soon, Tamara’s home felt unusually warm and bright—not least because of the kindness of strangers, the reunion with Button, and maybe, just maybe, a bit of everyday Christmas magic. Nobody can say exactly how it happened—but what’s certain is this: Tamara, Eva, and sometimes even Gran, called their little dog both Button and Holly from that day on. And a new family found happiness, when it once seemed lost.

Author Walton MerrittReading 11 minViews 1

Button? I called her Holly. She was running about all morning here. You could tell immediately she was lost. Then she nestled by my feet. Well, I popped her in the car, didnt I? So she wouldnt freeze, poor love, the man smiled…

Emily, is it possible to be so unlucky? How many times have I told you, that Andrew is not right for you! Emilys mother scolded her.

Emily stood with her head bowed. Even though shed only just turned thirty-seven, she felt like a schoolgirl whod brought home a failing mark.

It stung especially hard for herself, for her failed marriage, and for her little daughter. To be left without the head of the family just before Christmas the most magical time of year.

Im leaving you, Andrew muttered carelessly that evening. At first, Emily didnt grasp what he was on about.

Youre leaving? What do you mean? she asked automatically, setting a steaming bowl of stew in front of him.

Honestly, Em, youre away with the fairies. You never understand anything serious! How have I lived with you all this time? Andrew rolled his eyes dramatically.

Before Emily could say anything, he launched into more details:

I cant do this anymore! That yappy mutt of yours, always making a racket. Our daughters always poorly. No romance, none. And look at yourself what have you become? he ended his tirade.

Emily tried to peer at her frightened reflection in the glass cupboard door, but the tears clouded her vision. They streamed down her face, and she remained rooted to the spot in the kitchen.

Andrew hated tears. He cast a regretful look at the stew, got up, and started gathering his things.

Button the dog, sensing trouble, began circling Emilys feet, whining and trying to comfort her.

At least Ill get some peace without that constant howling, Andrew announced, appearing in the doorway with his bag slung over his shoulder.

But Andy, what about Daisy? Emily whispered, picturing how heartbroken their five-year-old daughter would be, sleeping soundly in her room.

Youll think of something! Youre her mother, after all, he replied, and left, Button’s whines trailing after him down the hall.

Emily spent the entire night in the kitchen, clutching Button. The little dog licked her arm, trying her best to offer comfort. She knew something dreadful had happened.

For several days, Emily couldnt bring herself to tell her mother anything. Her mother called now and then to ask how things were. Emily answered quickly that all was well and hung up.

Hows work? Found anything suitable yet? I keep telling you, if that Andrew of yours leaves, youll have nothing to live on, her mother said, dropping by for a visit.

That time, Emily couldnt hold back and burst into tears, explaining that no one was inviting her to interviews and that Andrew had gone several days ago.

Her mother tutted, clearly unprepared for this turn of events.

Well, we could all see it coming. Five years together, a child, and he never proposed, her mother fumed.

Of course, she felt sorry for her hapless daughter and granddaughter.

What on earth will you do now? she finally asked.

Emily shrugged:

Ill think of something. Ill get a job as a nursery assistant where Daisy goes, she said, resigned.

You wont last long on a teaching assistants salary and dont forget youve got the dog to feed as well, her mother pointed out, never fond of animals (especially Button, the fluffy stray Emily had taken in).

She was about to continue but paused when she saw Emily on the verge of tears again.

Alright, dont cry. Ill help. Ill even mind Daisy if you need me to, her mother tried to assure her.

Another week went by.

At last, Emily found a job. She went to the nursery with Daisy every morning. Daisy was delighted.

Mummy, can Button come with us to nursery? Granny keeps moaning she’s tired of taking her out. Maybe Button could help you wash the dishes and watch over us during nap time! Daisy smiled.

Emily only laughed and hugged her little girl, but every time Daisy asked, her eyes filled with sorrow:

Mummy, will Daddy be back soon? Will he make it home for Christmas? Daisy would ask.

Emily couldnt bring herself to tell Daisy the truth, so she made up a story about an urgent business trip. She rang Andrew, trying to arrange a visit, but he always had excuses:

Em, let me live my own life for once. Tell Daisy Im a top-secret agent off on a super important mission. I wont be back soon. Something like that, hed say, then ask if shed seen his tie at home.

Where could it have gone? What am I supposed to wear for Christmas? he lamented before hanging up.

Emily would sit and worry for ages, not knowing how shed face Christmas alone, nor how to explain everything to Daisy.

Then something unexpected occurred. Daisys gran was taking her to the GP shed caught a cold but was recovering fast. As they chatted, Andrew suddenly appeared from around the corner.

Daddy, Daddy! Youre back! Daisy squealed, running to him.

Andrew flinched. Then, trying to manage a smile, he quietly told his daughter that he and her mum wouldnt be living together anymore, before hurrying off.

Ill try to pop in if I can, he added, waving as he left.

Daisys face was stony, her voice barely more than a whisper:

Dont come back anymore.

That evening, her fever shot up again, and two days later the doctor was called.

Daisy didnt want to speak to anyone and didnt seem keen to get better either.

Probably stress, shrugged the doctor, after hearing about Andrew.

Emily blamed herself:

I shouldve explained everything to Daisy straightaway. Shes sharp shed have understood, she told her mother. Her mother only shook her head.

Two days later came another blow. Gran took Button out for a walk, and, rushing, left the lead behind. Button decided to do things her way once more.

When Gran scolded her, Button spun around and shot off down the pavement.

Oh, thats how it is, is it? Wont listen to me? Well, freeze out here then youll come back soon enough! huffed Gran, marching towards the flat to give Daisy her medicine.

But Daisy, on hearing Button was lost, stopped eating and drinking. No matter what Emily promised in her attempts to find their fluffy friend, Daisy was resolute:

Find Button, then Ill eat, she said, turning her face to the wall.

Thats all on your head, Em. Youve spoilt her shes out of hand just like I warned you… her mother began.

Maybe you shouldve watched Button better, not just given lectures, Emily snapped, suddenly finding her voice.

Well, I try my best for you both remember that! Gran retorted and left the house.

Once again, Emily was alone. She wandered round the streets that evening.

Daisy finally fell asleep. But Emily held on to hope that Button would find her way home. She came back chilled to the bone, drifting restlessly off to sleep…

Daisy woke up early:

Mummy, I had a dream! About a Christmas tree! We decorated it, and found Button! Daisy said with excitement.

Emily forced a smile. On the table stood a tiny artificial tree. The New Year was coming, and theyd tried their best to prepare for it.

Daisy was upset, insisting the tree had to be real and big.

Then Button will come back. Just like in the dream! she wept.

Emily sighed. Buying a real tree wasnt something she could afford nor was it in her plans. She rang her mum, but Gran flat-out refused to visit:

Clearly some dogs more important to you than your own mother! Think about that, she said, affronted.

Emily realised she couldnt expect any help from Gran. At least the weekend was coming.

Daisy felt poorly and didnt want to get up. That evening, with everything set for New Year, Daisy burst into tears:

Theres no Christmas tree, Mum. And Buttons not coming home, just like Dad…

Emily stroked her daughter’s head, holding back tears. She asked their kind neighbour, a sweet old lady, to watch Daisy while she slipped out.

The cold winter air stung her cheeks, snowflakes spinning in dizzy spirals. People passed by, faces aglow with smiles, but Emily didnt notice. She was desperately searching for Button.

Where could you have gone, sweetheart? she whispered over and over, walking old familiar streets.

Suddenly, she found herself at a small Christmas tree stall. A burly fellow, wrapped in a duffle coat, paced beside a handful of leftover trees. Emily stopped.

Christmas tree? Only a couple left, Ill do you a discount, said the stallholder, clearly eager to get home.

His family must be waiting… wife setting the table, kids peeking out the window, Emily thought.

A happy young couple dashed over and bought one of the last trees.

Well? Will you take one? Here, its the last… I can help you carry it, he offered.

Emily stared back, despair in her eyes. She had no money even the notes at home wouldnt cover the cost.

She shuffled her feet, feeling awkward, then noticed some branches lying in his lorry.

May I… erm… take those branches, if theyre just rubbish? she asked quietly.

The man glanced from Emily to the heap of fir boughs, then sighed:

Of course. Here, let me help you, he replied, pulling out an armful.

Gratefully, Emily accepted, feeling the need to explain:

My little girls ill… shes been dreaming of a Christmas tree, and our dogs run off… Just doesnt feel magical this year…

For some reason, the man listened attentively. His wife had recently left, and he found the holidays heavy no one waiting for him at home.

Just then, a stranger approached:

How much for the tree, mate? he asked, eyeing the last one left.

Sold already. Try next door, I reckon hes got a few left, the seller nodded.

Emily looked at him in surprise.

Come on, Ill help you get your tree home, he smiled at last.

Emily suddenly realised he wasnt as gruff as he seemed.

But I told you, Ive no money… she said, embarrassed.

I know, he nodded gently.

Then something truly wonderful happened the sort of thing that can only happen at Christmas.

He opened the truck door, and there, curled up on the seat in a woolly jumper, was Button, fast asleep. She blinked, confused at first.

But how did you find Button? Emily gasped, barely holding back tears.

Button? I called her Holly. She was running around here all morning, clearly lost… then curled up by my feet. So I popped her in the car to keep her from the cold, the man smiled.

His name was Paul. And as it happened, he loved animals and got on brilliantly with children.

Soon, Emilys home was filled with warmth and comfort as never before. Perhaps it was the magic of Christmas, bringing two good people together at just the right time or maybe it was simply fate.

No one can say. All we know is theres a happy family now and, every now and then, Button is called Holly.

LOVING WITH PATIENCE, ENDURING WITH LOVE John and Mary had a church wedding. On the day of the ceremony, as the wedding procession neared the church, a wild summer storm sprang up out of nowhere and tore Mary’s veil from her head. The veil soared skyward like a balloon, whirled about, then dropped, exhausted, into a muddy puddle. All the guests gasped in shock. The storm vanished as swiftly as it arrived. John dashed for the veil but could not reach it in time. The once-snowy veil now lay in a black puddle. In distress, Mary called to her groom, “John, don’t pick it up. I’m not wearing that veil!” The local old ladies outside the church began to mutter, warning: with such a sign, storms and troubles would follow the couple’s lives… A fake white flower was hastily pinned in Mary’s hair from the nearest shop—there was no time to find a new veil. One does not keep one’s own wedding waiting! The bride and groom stood together, candles in hand, pledging their vows before God at the altar. But before the sacred ceremony, John and Mary had already signed papers at the registry office and celebrated with a beautiful reception. That, as Mary told herself, was for people. Three years later, their home rang with the laughter of two children: little Sophie and Arthur. Life flowed along peacefully. But a decade on, a knock came at John and Mary’s door. Mary, ever the gracious hostess, welcomed all—invited or otherwise—offering a warm meal, a cup of tea, and a listening ear. This particular guest, however, was different. She arrived when John was out. Mary’s eyes sized up the stranger immediately: well-built, beautiful, young, and polite. “Hello Mary,” she introduced herself. “I’m Emily. I’m… I’m to be your husband’s future wife.” “How fascinating!” Mary replied in surprise. “And how long has John been your fiancé?” Mary pressed on with the odd conversation. “A long while. But I can’t wait any longer. John and I are expecting a child,” Emily reported, entirely unfazed. “Hmm… A textbook saga—wife, mistress, illegitimate child… Do you know John and I are church-wed? We have children,” Mary tried to reason. “I know everything. But John and I have true love! Forever too! You could annul the marriage. He’s not faithful. I asked my priest; it’s allowed,” Emily insisted. “Well, young lady, I sincerely advise you not to interfere in another’s marriage! We’ll handle our own love and loyalty,” Mary said, now irritated. “Good day.” Emily shrugged—“I warned you”—and hastily left. Mary slammed the door, furious: “She’s done her research… not getting my John!” She couldn’t help recalling how John had seemed different lately—longer hours at work, sudden business trips, a newfound interest in fishing… All classic signs. Women always sense a rival’s shadow. But Mary forced the dark thoughts away; perhaps it was her imagination, and John was guiltless. That evening, when John got home, Mary fed him well before broaching the uncomfortable topic. “John, are you in love?” she began, struggling with the words. “I am,” John confirmed, tense. “Your… sweetheart came by today. Is it serious?” Mary dreaded his answer. “I’m a scoundrel! I can’t live without Emily! I tried to break it off but failed! Let me go, Mary!” John begged. “You’re free…” Mary replied softly, realizing appeals to conscience or the children would be pointless. Life would decide. John moved out to be with his beloved. Mary sought comfort, and advice, from her vicar. “My daughter, love suffers long and never fails—remember the words of Scripture. You have the right to annul the marriage, for your husband has fallen into sinful lust. Or you may forgive, pray, and wait for his return. The Lord works in mysterious ways…” Two months later, Mary discovered she was pregnant—John’s child. She felt it was a sign that, in time, John would repent and return. A baby boy was born; Mary’s mother suggested naming him Jack—an English John. “Maybe your John will find his way home—miracles happen,” her mother smiled, helping care for all the children with devotion. John never forgot Sophie or Arthur—he spoiled them, took them on seaside holidays, sent Mary money by envelope. Mary forbade the kids from telling him about baby Jack, but of course, children never obey. Sophie blurted out the secret on a visit; John, believing Mary had moved on, felt a pang for his old, happy life—not imagining Jack was his own son. Meanwhile, Emily was in hospital on bedrest. John flitted between bringing fruit and hunting for “tasty” chalk to quell her cravings for calcium. Tragedy struck: Emily gave birth to a stillborn daughter, then later suffered a miscarriage. Devastated, Emily longed for a pause before another child, but fate had other plans. John doted on her, feeling deep guilt for their suffering. Back at Mary’s, her former university friend David began visiting. He’d courted her years ago, but she’d always found him too picky, too serious, too much a mama’s boy. When she met John, David was resigned to his fate. One rainy autumn day, Mary met David on the bus. He sensed her sadness, and she invited him round. Over a hearty dinner, she poured out every sorrow. He listened quietly, with understanding. Mary pecked him on the cheek for his sympathy—David, still single and childless, became a regular guest, bringing treats for the children and flowers for Mary. Mary laid firm boundaries: “Come by as you please, but I’m waiting for my husband. No funny business.” Even friendship was happiness to David; he called her his honorary sister, the children, his nieces and nephew. Time passed, and change returned to John’s new family: Emily finally gave birth to a healthy daughter—Grace. Emily was swept into motherhood, but couldn’t forget her conversation with Mary. Stolen happiness is always tinged with bitterness. Only after Grace’s birth did she truly understand the pain she’d caused. She wanted to fall at Mary’s feet and beg forgiveness. John adored baby Grace—spoiling her, comforting her through the nights, cherishing every moment. Years flowed by. Five years later, Emily grew gravely ill at just thirty. John was frantic: hospitals, doctors, expensive treatments. Nothing helped—Emily was dying. Preparing herself for the end, she had just one last wish: “Take me to your first wife, please,” she whispered to John. Mary had heard the news—from Sophie, who still visited her dad. Mary agreed at once. John carried Emily, weak as a whisper, into the house. The whole family gathered, waiting for an explanation. “Leave us, please,” Emily asked quietly. Mary sat beside her on the bed. “Forgive me, if you can, Mary. This is God’s punishment. I beg you—please take Grace as your own. I have only John, and you. Promise you’ll raise her alongside John,” Emily pleaded desperately, tears streaming. Mary gently squeezed her hand. “Emily, it’s not God’s punishment—it’s our own doing. I forgave you long ago. Don’t worry about Grace—we won’t abandon her. Stay here, with John. My house is big enough for everyone. You’ll get better—believe me, with God all things are possible! Don’t despair.” So Emily stayed, the house swelling like a fairy-tale cottage, everyone finding a place. David, tender since the moment he met Emily, was her greatest support. Gradually, without realising, he fell in love with Emily, adoring Grace as if she were his own. Emily fought to recover. Driven by hope, by Mary’s kindness, and by David’s gentle presence, she slowly regained strength. In time, Emily announced at dinner: “Mary, John, Grace and I—and David—will be moving out. Thank you for everything—for your love, your home, your hearts. I have never met such people! I never will again. Thank you.” John and Mary exchanged looks; they knew that love was blossoming between David and Emily. Earlier, John had made a confession to Mary: “Mary, whatever happens, I want to come back to you, to raise our three children together. Please, take me back. I’ll beg, if I must!” “Do you even need to ask?” Mary replied, embracing her prodigal husband. “But what about Grace?” Mary worried. “She’s my daughter. I’ll never turn her away. My home will always be open to her,” John promised. As David, Emily, and Grace prepared to leave, Emily pulled John aside: “Love Mary, John—love her more than life. Don’t ever hurt her. I’ll remember you always.” “Be happy, Emily,” John replied.

I was eight years old when my mum left home. She walked to the corner, hailed a cab, and never came back. My brother was five. Everything changed after that. Dad began doing things he’d never done before: waking up early to cook breakfast, learning how to do laundry, ironing school uniforms, fumbling through brushing our hair before we left for school. I watched him misjudge rice portions, burn meals, forget to separate whites from coloured clothes in the wash. But somehow we never went without. He came home tired from work and helped with homework, signed our exercise books, and made lunchboxes for the next day. Mum never came to visit. Dad never brought another woman home, never introduced anyone as his partner. We knew he went out and sometimes got back late, but his personal life stayed outside our walls. There was only me and my brother. I never heard him say he’d fallen in love again. His routine was work, come home, cook, wash, sleep, repeat. On weekends he took us to the park, the river, the shopping centre—even if it was just to window-shop. He learnt how to braid hair, sew on buttons, and make packed lunches. When we needed costumes for school plays, he fashioned them from cardboard and old fabric. He never complained. Never said, “This isn’t my job.” A year ago, Dad passed away—it happened quickly, with no chance for long goodbyes. While sorting through his things, I found old notebooks: lists of household expenses, important dates, reminders like “pay the school fee,” “buy shoes,” “take the girl to the doctor.” No love letters, no photos with another woman, no sign of a romantic life. Just the traces of a man who lived for his children. Since he’s been gone, one question won’t leave me alone: Was he happy? My mum left to find her own happiness. Dad stayed and, it seemed, gave up his own. He never rebuilt a family. Never had a home with a partner. Never again became a priority for anyone but us. Now I realise what an incredible father I had. But I also see that he was a man who stayed alone so that we wouldn’t be. And that weighs heavy. Because now he’s gone, I wonder if he ever received the love he deserved.

Natalie, You’ve Been Gone for Five Years—You Never Cared How I Was or What Became of Me Natalie and Ben had lived together for over five years. Ben didn’t earn much—his salary was rather modest, as he was an ordinary labourer. Natalie always dreamed of a comfortable, or even better, wealthy life, so she was thrilled whenever she met men more successful than her husband. One day, Natalie had incredible luck—she caught the eye of a wealthy businessman who promised her a fortune. She fell for his grand promises and left her poor husband to start a new life. Ben was devastated by his wife’s decision. He pleaded with his beloved, begging her not to leave. He promised her everything would change, that he’d work harder, switch jobs, work day and night if he had to, just to make her happy. But Natalie was unmoved—she was already dreaming of sailing white yachts and shopping in Europe’s finest boutiques. Her poor husband could never afford such luxuries. No vow of love or promise could persuade her. Five years later, now thirty-two, Natalie’s rich benefactor lost interest in her amidst a crowd of younger, more alluring women. He told Natalie she was too demanding and quarrelsome, and he lost all affection for her. Having no way to support herself in London, never having had a job in her life, Natalie decided to return to her ex-husband. After all, hadn’t he sworn eternal love and said his heart belonged to her forever? Surely he would be waiting for her. As Natalie approached the flat where she once lived, she heard footsteps and saw a woman open the door, holding a small girl. “Darling, we’ve talked about not opening the door alone,” the woman gently chided the child. “Can I help you?” she asked. Natalie stood speechless on the doorstep. “I’m looking for Ben. Is he home?” Natalie stammered, confused and uncertain. “Ben, someone’s here asking for you! What’s your name?” the woman called for Natalie’s ex-husband, then glanced back at the guest. “Natalie!” Ben said in surprise, then turned to the woman. “Love, could you go inside? I need to talk.” “Who was that?” Natalie asked in astonishment, watching as the woman carried the little girl away. “That’s my wife, Olivia, and in her arms is our daughter, Emily,” Ben replied. “You’re married? You have a daughter? You swore you would never love anyone the way you loved me!” “So many years have passed since that day! I was heartbroken at first, but then I realised life doesn’t end when someone leaves. That’s when I met Olivia, fell completely in love, and she made me happy. She gave me a daughter.” “And me? What about me?” “Natalie, you’ve been gone for five years and never cared how I was or what became of me. You ran after someone else’s money, and all you wanted was wealth and a lavish life. We may never have been rich, but that doesn’t excuse what you did. And now you’ve come back? Did you expect me to sit and wait for you all this time?” “I was foolish! I still love you!” “Natalie, enough of this act. Please go. I don’t need you, and I don’t want to see you. Your boyfriend dumped you, and that’s the only reason you’re here? It makes me sick. Please, just go.” Natalie burst into tears, consumed by her heartbreak and the pain of not being wanted, while Ben was glad to have finally moved on and found happiness—achieving closure and a sense of vindication.