Regretting the Wife He Threw Away

"You know, now that you mention it, I do remember you used to have a really nice camera back in high school. But then I don't think I ever saw you taking pictures after that."

"It was in my junior year. I actually got into a huge fight with my mom over it. She got so upset she had a stroke-half her body went numb. Thank God we got her to the hospital in time, and after surgery and some rehab, she made a full recovery. After that, though, I put the camera away and buried myself in my medical textbooks."

Briony hadn't expected a story like that.

She didn't really know what to say about Scarlett's decision.

After all, that was Stella's mother.

"So what are you planning now?" Briony asked.

"I've been out of the hospital for over four years. Even if I went back, it'd take ages to get used to it all again. Instead, I figure, why not take this chance to be true to myself and actually chase my dreams for once?"

"I think you should!" Briony encouraged her. "Start over, pick a new major, or even teach yourself—it doesn't matter. If you're passionate about something, you'll pick it up twice as fast."

"That's exactly what I think! Tomorrow I'm going to dig out my old camera from the attic. It's been years, but there are still so many photos on it, most of them of you!"

"Me?" Briony laughed, surprised. "Are you saying you were secretly taking pictures of me?"

wish I swung the other way-if I did, I'd totally try to seduce you and turn you! If

Briony: "..."

talking, the conversation stretching out until almost three in the morning, when sleep finally

they each rolled over and drifted into

at night, at THE WORLD-the biggest

tossing his keys to

the pavement, phone pressed to his ear. On the line was his friend,

here. Where are you?"

voice was slurred. "I'm

Nobody wants me,

pinched the bridge of his

so miserable,

staying single. Love

love anyway? Just suffering

entrance, closed his eyes, and took a steadying breath. Through gritted teeth, he

staff member at THE WORLD. Your friend is at Bar Three on the first floor. He's not doing too well, so if you could come get him as soon

"I'm on my way. Please keep an eye