This is the moment it all comes to an end.
Brogan didn’t call me last night.
Or this morning.
He didn’t fight for me.
Which is…
I’m not heartbroken.
I knew this was coming.
ME: On my way.
Grabbing my purse and keys, I head out of the office.
People still stare at me as I walk. The security guards still rush to open my door as if I’m some celebrity. I let them. This will be the last time anyway.
Once I’m outside, I spot Gerard. He nods in greeting and opens the back door of the SUV. I wonder if the guards are instructed to call him when they see me leaving. He always seems to know when I’ll need the car.
I shake my head. “Sorry, Gerard.”
“You didn’t call me this morning, ma’am. You should have contacted me so I could bring you to work.”
“I didn’t call on purpose.” Clutching my purse tighter, I smile sadly at him. “Keep looking after Gwen for me?”
“Elizabeth…”
Tears burst to my eyes. “Hey, I didn’t even have to remind you this time.”
“You’ll always be Mrs. Harrington to me.”
“No I won’t, Gerard.” I squeeze his shoulder. “Today and every day, I’m just Elizabeth and I’ll drive myself.”
He takes a step forward.
I hold a hand out, urging him to remain in place. “I truly appreciate you and all you’ve done for me.”
“Ma’am…”
After giving him a tight hug, I turn away.
Gerard doesn’t follow me.
He can’t.
He can’t chase me when I retreat into my world.
I head deeper into the parking lot.
Stop in front of my car. It’s older. Doesn’t run as smooth. Doesn’t have a sweet, sensitive chauffeur along with it.
But it’s mine.
This is mine.
I belong in this smelly old car.