Talking to my in-laws was out of the question, but I could still share the news with my husband.
I called him again, giddy with excitement, anticipating his joy.
"What, you're pregnant?"
Lost in my own happiness, I missed his peculiar tone and continued to gloat.
"Of course! Didn't I send you the test results? There's no mistake. Or did you give up hope? Guess I surprised you with how capable your wife is."
"Yeah, what a shocker."
His laughter was cold, his voice detached as he told me to rush home, claiming he'd be right there.
Typical! He'd always avoided hospital visits, citing job concerns, but now he's suddenly proactive.
I met my parents, elated, even grabbing a coffee before they arrived. Blissfully, I headed home, watching him smile as he said goodbye to my parents.
And then.
As soon as the elevator door closed, he snapped, grabbing my hair and slamming my head against it.
My scream was met with a flurry of slaps that left me reeling.
He dragged me to the bathroom, thrusting my head into the toilet.
The bleach mixed with the sewage stench filled my senses, choking me, and stealing my breath.
He held me down methodically, letting me up only when I seemed about to pass out, then submerging me again whenever I caught a breath.
"This is what you get for betraying me, you cheater! Thought you could make a fool of me? Go to hell!"
In the end, I was barely conscious, discarded by him.
It seemed to make him pleased. He kicked my head against the corner and walked away in disgust.
