Waking in the middle of the night, Emily felt an emptiness beside her. Confused, she reached out, hoping to feel the familiar warmth of her husband, James.
But sleep didnt return, and James hadnt come back to bed for nearly fifteen minutes. Emilys heart pounded anxiously as she sat up, staring into the dark. What if something had happened? Maybe he was unwell?
She tried to calm herself, thinking he might have woken from insomnia and busied himself with work. But the unease wouldnt leave her.
Not wanting to fret needlessly, Emily carefully got out of bed and, quietly opening the bedroom door, tiptoed toward the kitchen. Nearing it, she froze just steps away.
She heard Jamess voice. He was on the phone. The speaker was loud enough for her to make out the other persons wordsor rather, the other womans.
*Yes, darling, Ive already booked the tickets to Spain,* Jamess voice rang out, full of anticipation. *Well have an unforgettable time together. No one will ever know.*
Emily felt the ground slip from beneath her. Her world shattered in an instant. Every word, every phrase cut into her like a knife.
So many years together, so many plans, joys, and hardships theyd faced side by side. How could he?
Emily returned to the bedroom. Lying in the dark, she felt tears stream down her cheeks. Her heart ached, torn between anger, hurt, and bitter disappointment.
Finally, resolve settled over her. She got up, walked to the wardrobe, and began packing Jamess things into a suitcase.
When James entered the room, he saw her with the suitcase and asked, startled, *Whats going on?*
Emily met his eyes, filled with disappointment and steel. *I packed your suitcase,* she said calmly. *So you can take it with you to Spain.*
*What are you talking about?* James laughed nervously.
*Dont pretend, James. I heard your call in the kitchen.*
James visibly tensed, his hands trembling. He tried to speak, but Emily stopped him. *You can pack the rest yourself. Take the suitcase and go to a hotelor wherever you want. And after your holiday, dont come back here.*
That night, Emilys life changed forever.
When James left, she lay back down, knowing she wouldnt sleep. But one thought stayed with her: everything would be different now. No more illusions, no more pain from betrayal. She was finally free.
What do you thinkdid Emily do the right thing? Or should she have stayed silent? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Friends, if you enjoyed this story, leave your comments and dont forget to like. It inspires us to keep writing!
