After being reborn, I make up my mind to stop chasing after my husband and daughter

Chapter 18

Hearing the men discuss their careers today, I realized with sudden clarity–I deserved that same confidence, that equal seat at the table.

Jared called again as soon as I got home. I answered while sinking into the couch.

“Why weren’t you answering your phone?” Jared’s suspicion bled through the line.

“Must’ve been on silent. What’s up?” The lie came automatically now.

“Who were you out with? Yvonne said you went out again.” He might as well have been taking attendance.

“Just some college friends,” I said lightly. “They’re all doing well here. Thought I’d reconnect before starting work.”

He seemed to turn my answer over in his head before responding. “You’ve changed lately. What’s going on?”

“Changed how?” I toyed with my hair, suddenly recalling my younger self–the one who wanted to burn bright, not fade into someone’s background.

“You’re dressing differently these days,” Jared said, proving he noticed every detail about me.

good?” I asked with

dignified enough.”

a laugh. “Those wedding vows about loving me unconditionally–were those just empty

on his end was satisfying. “I never said it was bad,” he finally

there anything else? I’m tired.” I had zero patience

line went quiet for a beat. “Fine. Goodbye,” he said tightly before the line

chuckle. Jared was always perfectly composed, the genteel husband who never raised his voice. But that same restraint made him emotionally

mirrored what they were given. Coldness turned them

joy, always smiling, always bright. That changed when I married Jared. The real smiles disappeared, replaced by careful words and

some gruel,” Wendy offered softly.

thank you.” I drew a steadying breath. This was the day I’d stop playing

night until the

same helpless terror and crushing despair. I

with sweat.

my palms against

me I was