Caroline’s POV:
Hearing Martin’s soft-spoken words sent a flurry of mixed emotions washing over me. He wanted me to rely on someone?
As I was silently deliberating what to even say to that, my phone started to ring. I curiously glanced at the caller ID to see that it was James, William’s personal assistant. Giving Martin an apologetic look, I said, “I have to take this call. Do you think you could give me a few minutes?”
Martin’s smile was kind and sweet. “Of course. I’ll go get us some coffee, alright?”
As soon as he was gone, I reluctantly glanced down at the Caller ID. I didn’t want anything to do with William right now, but I had no choice. Sure enough, there was James’ snippy tone on the other end. “Mrs. Anderson?”
The title made me wince with pain. It didn’t feel right to be called his wife after his unfaithfulness to me, even if we were still married. “Please, just call me Caroline. What can I help you with?”
“I’m just here to remind you that Sara Anderson’s birthday party is tomorrow, and Mr. Anderson doesn’t want you to be late,” James informed me, hitting me with a sense of realization.
I couldn’t believe I forgot William’s mother had her birthday the next day. The Anderson family always invited a plethora of business partners and celebrities every year, and as a “dutiful wife”, I was expected to attend. I had always enjoyed these extravagant parties back when William and I were together, but excitement evaded me this time.
Did Sara even know that William and I were getting a divorce? If she did, would she look at me any differently?
“Caroline? Is everything alright?” James asked, a hint of concern in that normally rigid voice.
I swallowed my emotions, trying to remain calm. “I’m fine,” I replied, my own voice stiff as well. “I’ll be sure to attend on time. Thank you for letting me know.”
Martin sauntered in with the coffee he’d promised, worry etched into his face. “I see you’re finished. Is everything alright?”
“Everything is fine,” I lied. My smile was tight-lipped. I paused with consideration before I announced with shaken confidence, “I’m going to consider chemotherapy.”
Pleasant surprise flicked over Martin’s soft features. “You are? That’s fantastic!”
I couldn’t bring myself to match his enthusiasm. “Part of me wonders if it’s even worth it, but… I’ll put some thought into it.”
A bright smile graced Martin’s face. “Good to hear.” The hug he gave me was warm and comforting. “Just remember that there are people out there who care about you.”
I expressed my gratitude to Martin and left the hospital soon after, getting a taxi back to Cindy’s house since she was having a late night at work. On the way back, anxiety welled up inside me.
What happened between William and I was kept under a tight lid. If the press found out about it, they would have a field day, printing out scandalous tabloids left and right.
A dark part of me wondered if I should tell them just as a way to get back at William. For all that he’d done to me, he would deserve it.
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