Housewife Gone Wild

The storm howled outside, rain hammering against the windows as Jared’s words made my blood run cold.

Why was he asking this now? Was he worried I’d discovered his secret, or was this his way of coming clean? Would he sit me down again to negotiate his relationship with Tracy, just like before? My mind raced with questions.

Back then, I’d been such a fool, clinging to that worthless marriage certificate, refusing to surrender my place.

This time around, I would gladly accept if Jared offered the same deal again, taking only the money and nothing more when I left.

“What’s wrong? Got something to hide?” I asked, forcing a teasing tone I didn’t feel.

Jared was dangerous–a man who could smile while burning with rage inside, and then retaliate in ways his victims never anticipated.

I couldn’t risk provoking him. If he dropped the act of caring about our marriage, I’d lose everything. My safest move was to take the money and run. As for child support, I knew that wasn’t coming.

pause, he said, “Don’t believe anything you hear. They’re just rumors without substance.

Jared I knew. His suggestion to ignore the rumors

help but recognize the pattern. He had broken his promises but wouldn’t admit it, making me question myself while denying every rumor. Still, I knew one truth–rumors didn’t start without reason, and gossip usually contained some

darling,” I said, stepping closer with a carefully crafted smile. “You’re

reached to brush a stray lock of hair from my face. “How are you settling in at the company? You

go home ahead of me. Yvonne and I… we’re still not on speaking terms. I

mom’s place. Tonight, it’s just the two

an off–the–shoulder knit top, the fabric slipping just enough to

home early.” There was a roughness in his voice I.

He’d always ask