I went to the dance company and handed in my resignation.

I'd only stayed at this company because it was close to home, which made it easier to take care of Julian.

That wasn't necessary anymore.

The director tried to get me to stay, but I stood my ground.

Just last week, the Paris Opera Ballet had responded to the application I'd sent. I was in.

Dancing there had been my dream since I was a little girl. I'd given it up for Julian, but it wasn't too late to chase it now.

After resigning, I started my handover and called my best friend to share the good news.

She was thrilled for me, but after a moment, she asked, "What about Julian? Does he know you're going to Paris?"

I laughed. "No. He doesn't need to know. This time, I'm going alone."

Once everything at the company was settled, I started preparing my visa and other documents for the move.

My parents were divorced. In America, besides a few childhood friends, all I had was Julian.

I used to think that wherever Julian was, that was my home.

But I didn't have a home anymore.

I was like a piece of driftwood, floating wherever the current took me.

When I got back to the apartment, Julian was about to leave.

He was dressed in an expensive suit with a dark green tie that made him look powerful.

I saw the elegant cake box in his hand and knew instantly.

Today was Sophia's birthday. Julian was going to celebrate with her.

He was on the phone, his voice bubbling with excitement. "Okay, stop guessing. It wouldn't be a surprise if I told you, would it? Just wait for me to get there."

I don't know what the person on the other end said, but it made Julian laugh out loud, showing his canines.

That simple smile was something I rarely ever got to see.

He was still smiling, but the moment he saw me, the smile vanished from his lips.

Julian would give Sophia anything she wanted, but he couldn't even spare a single smile for me.

His expression darkened instantly. He didn't say another word, just looked away in disgust.

He put on his shoes and left, the heavy slam of the door echoing behind him.

I knew what this meant. Julian was giving me the silent treatment again.

We'd done this before, and it was always because of Sophia.

Every time, I would be a mess, desperately trying to win him back.

Even if he ignored all my texts, I would keep trying, shamelessly.

But this time, I just went online and started looking up French recipes.

I figured I should start getting used to it.