Beyond the Divorce by Third Blossom

Chapter 55 Someone to Entertain

I wandered and found myself by the river again. I had brought some wine and arranged for my mother–in- law to pick Ava up. Then, I settled by the river to pour myself a drink.

I realized the company had become an empty shell, its sole purpose to fill the Murphys‘ wallet. Meanwhile, I was empty–handed. No wonder Melanie could taunt me so confidently. Although I married

into the family, I wasn’t part of their world.

Even now, Melanie and Matthew didn’t spare my meager possessions. They would invade my space and commit vile acts on my bed whenever I was away. I thought I was strong–willed at the Murphys‘ residence last night.

However, my repayment was a car for Melanie. When I asked him to send my parents some money, he lashed out at Erica. The more I thought about it, the more my heart ached. It was like a stabbing pain suffocating my chest.

My phone kept ringing, and I didn’t know what I said when I answered. I was starting to feel a little tipsy. I saw the buildings across the river light up as night fell, but none shined for me. I had nothing left.

I raised the wine bottle toward the lights, only to have someone swipe it away. A low voice followed,

Chloe Hartz.”

I turned to look in a daze and saw the man who had witnessed my consistent misfortunes. I shook my head and chuckled, saying, “How’d you know I was here? Did I leave something behind?”

“Weren’t you in pain yesterday? Have you forgotten your doctor’s orders already?” Atlas scolded.

“Forget about doctor’s orders. You’re a buzzkill.” I looked at him and tugged at his sleeve. “Come on, join

for a

felt a little playful, likely from him interrupting my loneliness. It was either that or my inner teenage girl was excited. Atlas stood there for some time, just watching me. I shook his arm,

onto the riverbank and sat beside me. He opened

toasted to

“Thank you for being

you drinking?” he

need a reason to drink?” I took another sip. “Is being happy a good enough reason?” Like a fool, I stared at the lights on the other side of the

+15 BONUS

I thought was my soulmate had slung a web for me, and I walked right into it, trapped

I have a daughter, so it’s not a complete loss. I lost everything, but I still

asked without looking at me. Instead, he stared at the lights across

river.

to ruin him

and making a scene your plan for revenge? I

you to be this foolish.”

you trying to discourage me?” I was a bit annoyed at

get drunk here and call it a night, huh? Didn’t you just see

move everything away, drive a new car, and go

do? Yell at them as

words struck my weakest point, and I felt ashamed. My low self–esteem made me hysterical.”

say that to me? I’m the one embarrassed, but it’s not your place