Two years ago, at my mentor's suggestion, I went abroad for further studies. Initially, I hesitated, but Erick Lawrence reassured me, "Every woman should have her own career. Go for it. I'll be waiting when you return."
My best friend, Cassandra Robinson, added, "I know you're worried about Erick. Don't worry, I'll keep an eye on him to make sure he stays faithful."
Little did I know, Erick stayed faithful to her.
When I returned home, Erick was already there, the house filled with the scent of cigarette smoke. I swapped my shoes for slippers and walked in, leaving my suitcase by the door. Erick looked at me seriously and said, "About Cassandra and me, don't blame her; it's all my doing."
"I know she's your best friend, and I shouldn't have gotten involved with her, but love is irrational. I couldn't help it, and I was compelled to follow my heart."
"Listen, Eden, we know each other so well; it's almost like we're numb to each other. But Cassandra is different—she's like a breath of fresh air. I know I've wronged you, and no matter how much you resent me, I can't let her go."
"She said she doesn't care about labels; she just wants my child. She's given up so much, and I can't let her down."
"You were away for two years, focused on your career, and during my lonely times here, Cassandra was always there for me. I admit I fell for her, and that's why we're together now."
He talked about their relationship like it was a romantic drama, leaving me numb and despondent.
Cassandra made him feel alive, like he couldn't lose her. And what about me? What did our five-year marriage mean?
When he started his business, we were broke and struggling. I lived with him in a dingy basement, eating cheap food and making him stew when he overindulged in drinking. During our toughest times, I even sold my parents' house to support him financially.
For three years, we struggled together. His company was barely making any money, and I used my salary and side jobs to support it. I didn’t dare visit a doctor when I felt ill, for fear of the expense. I always pushed through on my own.
The irregular meals from working so hard and taking on extra jobs worsened my stomach issues, but I never mentioned it to Erick.
Now that his company is thriving, Cassandra, who got a job as his assistant through my connections, was the one by his side, helping him through challenges while I was gone.
My sacrifices seemed to disappear, like smoke, no longer remembered by him. His only issue was loneliness, and Cassandra's company made him feel complete.
I felt a chill of bitterness, staring at him. "Erick Lawrence, we dated for four years and have been married for five. Nine years together don't measure up to Cassandra's two years? Your so-called love overshadows everything we had?"
The study program required two years, and I worked tirelessly to finish early—studying hard, researching, staying up late—just to come back sooner for him.
But now, everything I did seems meaningless. My efforts have turned into a joke, with Erick and Cassandra as the audience.
Erick stubbed out his cigarette and opened the window to let in the cold air, which made me shiver. He explained, "Cassandra is pregnant and can't stand the smell of smoke, so I'm airing it out."
Turning back to me, he said seriously, "I only feel a familial bond with you now, not love. Eden, let's end this. Two years really can change everything. I don't want to keep you in limbo anymore. Let's separate."
"We should go our separate ways," he said so casually, while I was left with bitterness. With a single phrase, he dismissed all the years we shared.
His phone rang, and he answered. I could hear the voice on the other end through the speakerphone: "Honey, when are you coming back? The baby is craving some ravioli. Could you bring us some on your way home?"
"Did I call at a bad time? If Eden is still upset, stay with her and talk things out. I can manage on my own," the voice said, filled with concern and careful probing.
Erick replied softly, "I'm coming back soon and will definitely bring you and the baby some ravioli. Don't overthink it."
The tenderness on his face was something I hadn't seen in a long time, a look that used to be just for me and was now for another woman.
Clutching my aching stomach, I recalled the excitement I felt upon returning. I hadn't eaten on the flight, and now the pain was worsening. My face turned pale as I collapsed onto the couch, unable to speak from the sharp discomfort.
Erick looked at me, frowning. "Eden Bennett, playing the weak card doesn't suit you. Cassandra is pregnant and needs someone around. Don’t think acting frail will change my mind—it won't work."
"Even if I stay tonight, it won't change anything. I won't touch you or betray Cassandra."
"Just say it's my fault. Name your terms for the divorce, and let me know when you decide. But don't bother Cassandra; she's fragile right now and can't handle the stress."
"I hope we can part on good terms."
I rolled my eyes, wordless and overwhelmed. A cheating man is a disgrace.
Erick left quickly, seemingly eager to distance himself.
The door hadn’t even closed when I heard him on the phone while waiting for the elevator: "I'm on my way down now. Don't be jealous. I told you I'd come back to you; why would I spend the night with her? I always keep my promises, silly."
Saying I wasn’t hurt would be a lie. The empty house around me reminded me of our past.
That night, I held back tears until I couldn't anymore. Yes, it hurt.
If Erick had cheated with another woman, I wouldn't have been as devastated. But why did it have to be Cassandra, my best friend? It felt like a knife to my chest, followed by another in my back from someone I considered family.
My stomach cramps were unbearable, sweat dripping from my forehead. Trembling, I called Joey Elliott, my colleague who had returned to the country with me. "Joey, help me," I whispered before losing consciousness.
