My wife said “My Ex Matters More To Me Than You Do” – What I Did Next Left Her In Regrets.

But seriously, what you did standing up with evidence instead of just being bitter? My husband and I both said we’d only hire someone with that kind of integrity. That’s rare. I finished the installation by 400 p.m. The cabinets were perfect. White oak with soft clothes hinges, hand rubbed finish that would last decades. Work I was proud of.

Driving home, I passed the apartment I now owned outright. Bennett had signed it over in the divorce settlement. Desperate to avoid further legal trouble. I kept it rented it out. The income funded my expansion. My phone buzzed at a red light. Angela dinner at my place. Making that pasta you like. Also may have told a gallery owner about your furniture and she wants to meet you. You’re welcome.

Smiling face with smiling eyes. I smiled texted back. You’re the best. See you at 7:00. Another text came through as I pulled into my driveway. A small house. I bought 3 months ago. Nothing fancy, but mine. Workshop in the back. Garden. Angela was helping me plant. Unknown number. This is Bennett. I know you won’t respond, but I need you to know you were right about everything.

I’m sorry I couldn’t see it before I lost you. Clinton was using me. I was using you. I destroyed the only real thing I ever had. I’m in therapy now trying to understand why I I deleted it without reading past the first line. Some chapters deserve to stay closed. Some people teach you what you’re worth by showing you what you’re not.

I walked into my house, fed my new dog, a rescue mut named sawdust, and started sketching plans for a dining table. A client had commissioned it for their daughter’s wedding gift. They wanted something that would last generations. I could do that. Building things that lasted was what I did best.

My phone stayed silent the rest of the night. And for the first time in 8 years, silence felt like peace.