One evening, a man returned home and uttered softly, Im sorry. Ive fallen for someone else. Ill support the boys. Im leavingforgive me, if you can.
Without another word, he walked out, leaving Sophie with their children. The next day, a neighbours revelation shattered her illusions.
Sophie had married late. Before, shed been consumed by university, then her career. That was where shed met himJames. Shed collided with him in her rush to the office, an accidental brush of shoulders. Hed fallen for her instantly. That same evening, as she left work, James appeared unexpectedly, shielding her from the rain with an umbrella and presenting a bouquet. That was how it beganflowers, surprises, gifts. Six months later, they married. A year after, their first child arrived.
Sophie had gained weight during the pregnancies, but James never minded. Then came their second son. She never returned to work, devoting herself to the house and the boys. Meanwhile, James built his own small businesscomputer repairs. She hadnt noticed the distance growing between them. This past year had been the hardest. James vanished into work, claiming business trips. She never imagined he wasnt travelling at all.
Then, that evening, he came home and said calmly, Im sorry. Ive fallen for someone else. Ill support the boys. Im leavingforgive me, if you can.
Sophie was blindsided. Only the next day did their neighbour reveal the truthJames had been unfaithful for months. She wasnt herself after that.
Eight months passed.
One evening, the intercom buzzed. James had come to see the children. Sophie exchanged a few stiff words before retreating to the kitchen. Then her phone rang. She answered, her voice softening. Hi. I thought youd forgotten about us.
Never. How could I forget happiness? Ill pick you all up tomorrow. You and the boys will love the new place. I love you.
She hung up, a smile lighting her face. Daniel had proposedtheyd be moving in together. She turned to check on the boys, but James stood there, his voice quiet. Am I too late? He stared at the floor.
Sophies laugh was bright, triumphant. Yes!
