Chapter 8
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Nathan insisted on taking me out to dinner to lift my spirits.
An exclusive restaurant with private dining rooms. I hadn't been to such places since marrying Victoria.
After using the restroom, I turned the corner and nearly collided with Victoria and Alexander.
Just my luck.
Victoria's eyes widened when she saw me. She dropped Alexander's hand and rushed over, grabbing my arm with surprising strength. "Ethan! Thank God I found you!"
She looked disheveled—makeup smudged, eyes bloodshot.
"Ethan, please come home. I was wrong. I can't function without you."
Her words tumbled out as tears spilled down her cheeks.
"I was blind before—under a spell. Forgive me just this once. I swear I'll make it up to you. We can be a real family—you, me, and Lily."
Alexander stormed after her, his face contorted with rage. "Vicky, why are you begging this worthless piece of—"
"SHUT UP!" Victoria whirled around and screamed. Before either of us could react, she slapped Alexander across the face with a crack that echoed down the hallway.
The sound made me wince.
"This is all YOUR fault! You've poisoned everything between us! You manipulated me! Get out of my life and STAY out!" Her performance was Oscar-worthy.
Alexander clutched his cheek, staring at her with stunned disbelief that quickly morphed into murderous rage.
Victoria turned back to me, her voice humble. "See? It's over with him. Completely over. I'll do anything you want. Can we start fresh? Please?"
I watched her little drama with icy detachment.
The irony was almost laughable.
"Victoria, you're overacting," I yanked my arm free and smoothed my sleeve. "Should I remind you who Lily called 'daddy' in front of everyone?"
The color drained from Victoria's face, her lips quivering.
"Sign the papers. Let's salvage what little dignity we have left." I met her gaze coldly. "Don't turn whatever affection I have left into complete disgust."
I brushed past her and walked away.
Behind me, Victoria's muffled sobs mingled with Alexander's vicious curses.
None of it mattered to me anymore.
