Housewife Gone Wild

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.

I look good?” I

dignified enough.” He was never

barked a laugh. “Those wedding vows about loving me unconditionally–were

was satisfying. “I never said

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

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

perfectly composed, the genteel husband who never

been simple–women mirrored what they were given.

married Jared. The real smiles disappeared, replaced by careful words and

made some gruel,” Wendy offered softly. “Would you

a steadying breath. This was the day I’d stop playing a role and start

deeply that night until the nightmare came

died again, experiencing the same helpless terror and crushing despair. I

with sweat.

my palms against the sink

I

as I was having breakfast.