But maybe I’d have to play by her rules in order to get another chance.
However, deep down inside, I knew it was over. She wouldn’t even speak to me. She’d filed for divorce and changed the locks. Lila couldn't afford to live there alone, though, so I felt sick at what might come next.
Who knew my wife was capable of this?
11
LILA
Victor's mom, Bianci, buzzed around me while I continued to down wine like it was running out.
“The audacity!” Vanessa cried, yanking another bottle of wine from my fridge and handing it to me.
I took it duly and slurped away, feeling numb.
“Not leaving until you talk to him? Who the fuck does he think he is?” Vanessa was on a roll, but all I could think of was thatfuckingvideo.
I’d watched it on repeat to keep my tears at bay and my anger at the forefront of my mind. It made it easier to cope with, watching him rail some bitch who absolutely had it coming to her.
I hadn’t forgotten her. Not at all. I would deal with her soon, but first, I had to get stronger. Wine probably wasn’t wise, as twice tonight tears had pricked my eyelids at the thought of my husband kissing me on the forehead before he went to work.
Damn that man for ruining everything.
“Disgraceful.” Bianci sat across from me, tutting. She was a strong woman, and I tried to steal some of her strength as shefixed me with a look. “He’s my son, and I love him, but I’m so angry and disappointed right now. I’m so sorry, Lila.”
She shook her head and stared at the floor with the same brown eyes my husband had. I shivered and looked away, happy to have their backup and support, but also wanting to be alone.
“Lots of couples don’t have sex. It’s normal,” Bianci said, waving her hand.
“Mom!”Vanessa hissed, darting a look at me pointedly.
I frowned and looked at Bianci.
“Did he say that? That we don’t have sex?”
There was a pause, and Vanessa glared at her mom before turning to me, her face softening.
“Men that cheat always have excuses.”
“Did he say that?” I asked again, gripping the wine glass between my fingers.
But I already knew he had, because it was true. My cheeks flooded with heat, and I couldn't determine whether it was from shame or embarrassment.
“He said you’d not been intimate, yes.” Vanessa hesitated, and I knew there was more.
I braced myself, took another slug of wine, and asked, “What else did he say?”
Vanessa looked pained, her eyes shining with tears. “Oh, darling. You don’t need to know any of this right now.”
“Vanessa.” My words were sharp and stern. Most unlike me. “Tell me.”
Vanessa nodded and sat beside me, taking my free hand in her warm and soft ones.
I lifted my gaze.
“He said he tried talking to you, but you told him to deal with it.”
Blood rushed through my ears, drowning out the rest of her words.
