Dear Ex Wife Please take me back novel Chapter 1

Anthena

“Athena? Did you hear what I said?”

A soft voice pulls me back.

No.

“Yes.” I force a smile.

“Great. Don’t forget to take the medication,” Dr. Anthony says, his voice gentle yet distant, like background noise in a storm. I nod, barely absorbing his words.

I just want to get out of here.

When I rushed in this morning, I thought I was having a heart attack. But apparently, gas can mess you up just as badly. Who knew?

I pick up my phone and dial my husband’s number.

Voicemail.

Again.

My stomach twists. That’s not like him.

The door swings open, and my heart jumps—only to sink just as fast. It’s not Alex.

The disappointment is brutal, cutting straight through my chest and curling in my stomach like a fist tightening from the inside.

Maybe it’s just the gas.

For three years, I’ve had to walk on eggshells, knowing my marriage would end eventually.

A deal that was never supposed to mean anything turned into my prison. Because now, I’m terrified of losing him.

Or am I just being paranoid?

Honestly, at this point, I might as well lose my goddamn mind.

“Athena, how are you feeling?” Noah asks.

“Like I’m actually having a heart attack,” I mutter, pushing myself to my feet.

Noah is Alex’s cousin. He’s been a constant in my life since I married the man who sets my soul on fire. Like gaining a brother as a bonus.

“Has Alex called you back yet?” I ask, my voice tighter than I intend.

Noah shakes his head. “No. But I’m sure he’s just busy.”

Busy.

Yes, that must be it.

Busy with work and not…

Jesus, Athena, get yourself together.

I bite my bottom lip and nod, pretending that makes sense. Pretending that my gut isn’t twisting harder, whispering something I don’t want to hear.

Noah steps forward, opening the door for me, but I barely take a step before my body locks up.

Because I see him.

Alexander King.

And her.

Leah Woods.

I'd recognize that face anywhere.

Perfect face, bleach blonde hair and green eyes to die for.

Looking at her, I see why she is his first love.

My stomach drops, the air sucked from my lungs as my world stops.

So that’s why he wasn’t answering.

She's back.

A sharp inhale burns down my throat, but I can’t move.

Can’t blink.

But, does she know who I am? Will Alex change his mind?

Then, his voice cuts through my thoughts like a hot knife does in butter.

“Athena?”

There is shock in his voice.

I bet he didn't think he'd meet me here. His Jade green eyes look almost sorry.

“Alex.” I breathe.

Leah looks between us, her delicate features twisting in confusion. She touches Alex and my heart beats even faster as jealousy runs through my veins.

I want to be able to touch him like that.

“Is she a friend?” she asks, her voice sounding weak like she is on a death bed.

My heart pounds so hard I can hear blood rushing in my ears.

This has been our secret. Now, it seems even the secret has a secret.