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613words2026-01-26 09:05

Daniel Ward,my boyfriend for the last fifteen years.
A youthful romance,we got married after pregnancy.
However,I miscarried in the hospital while he was with his mistress.

Depression consumed me,and I was diagnosed with stomach cancer.
After death,I became a soul,lingering by his side.
Yet,I never imagined he'd regret what he didto the point of madness.
...
The phone on the table rang,Daniel's name popped up on the screen.
I ignored it.

Moments later,it rang again.But this time it stopped after a few rings.
The screen lit up with a text notification.
I pursed my lips and opened it.
"Sarah,what game are you playing now?"

"You're the one who wanted to go to the courthouse to sign the divorce papers.I waited all morning—but where are you?It's already eleven."
"Don't think these tactics will get us back together.How many times have you told me you’re gonna break up with me in all these years?"
As if texting me was a let-out of his emotions,Daniel's texts kept coming in,they were filled with nothing but complaints and insults.
"This time,you’re the one who wanted the divorce."
"Besides,you know I don't love you anymore.Emily's waiting for me—I can't let her suffer."
Reading Daniel's words,my grip on the phone tightened,my fingers whitening.
My face,already pale,grew even more gaunt.
Fifteen years of love— hiw could it vanish so quickly?
You can't bear to see her suffer.
But what about me,Daniel?
Do you remember saying the same to me all those years ago?And how have you treated me?
Once,your affection towards me made others envious.
Now,Daniel,how can you shower me with love one moment and fall for someone else the next?
My heart ached,nearly suffocating.I gave a cold laugh.
My trembling fingers hovered over the reply box but sent nothing.
The young,handsome doctor across from me paused mid-sentence.
Noticing the constant notifications,his expression turned serious.
He cleared his throat."Ms.Harper,no matter how busy you are,your health and life come first."
I shook my head,forcing a smile."Doctor,my apologies."
"You were saying—how long do I have left?"
Dr.Mason didn't answer.He shoved over my medical file.
He glanced briefly behind me.
"Severe depression and late-stage stomach cancer.Ms.Harper,you need to prepare yourself for what lies ahead.Surgery might allow you to live a bit longer.Without it,you likely have six months at most."
"You should inform your family.Some things can't be hidden,and it's better to have someone share the burden."
"Also,arrange your hospitalization soon."
I stared at the file,biting my lip hard,then releasing it weakly.
"I understand.I'll arrange things soon."
Seeing my dismissive attitude,the doctor shook his head,sighing.
He gave me more instructions about my medications before letting me leave.
I returned home with the prescribed drugs.
Emily Tate opened the door from inside.
I paused with my hand on the doorknob,and gave a cold laugh."Ms.Tate,this is my house,isn't it?"
She feigned innocence."But Daniel brought me here."
She stepped aside,revealing Daniel's familiar figure.
He was sitting in the living room,and he eyed the bags in my hands.
I hid the bags of medication behind my back and remained expressionless.
My action seemed to irritate him.
He paused,then snapped impatiently,"Sarah,you're out shopping at a time like this?"
"Have you forgotten what what you were gonna do today?"
I looked at him calmly."Why are you here?Where'd you get a key?"
Daniel’s tone was ice-cold."This used to be my home too.I can't come back?"
"When are we signing the divorce papers?"
"There's no love left between us.Dragging this out hurts only us both,doesn't it,Sarah?"He stared at me as he spoke.
Behind him,Emily,hearing this,smirked triumphantly at me.
She turned and walked to Daniel,linking her arm with his as she sat down.
I watched Emily's performance silently.
She had always been like this.