Bill did keep his word. During that time, Jake texted me with his daily schedule.

I ignored them.

I didn’t care what he did. It was all a lie. I wasn’t going to play the loving wife anymore.

I told Jake that I had to stay at the research center so I could work on a project.

Jake knew that the research center didn't allow cell phones.

On the day Jake was scheduled to return, I packed all of his belongings and put them outside the front door.

"Honey, I'm home!"

Jake called as he opened the door, smiling.

But I didn’t run to greet him.

He saw the boxes by the door and frowned. "What's this?"

"Oh, that's your stuff. Please take it soon, or I'm tossing it." I said.

Jake's smile vanished. "What are you talking about?"

"I said I wanted a divorce. Remember when you left?"

"I'm sorry, don't be angry."

Jake smiled at me, as if I was a child.

“I know, sweetheart, I’m sorry I didn’t tell you about being called to go away. But it was a last-minute business call.

“Look, I got you a gift. The perfume you wanted. Don’t be mad anymore.”

Jake pulled out a bottle of perfume, opened the box, and handed it to me, wearing a contrite expression.

I just stared at him, not reaching for it.

“Here, take it. This is your favorite, right?”