When Love Becomes a Cage (Melanie) novel Chapter 34

I felt much better when I returned to Jane's cozy, rented apartment. Without Clyde’s presence, everything just seemed right.

Jade was all over the place, ordering pizza, slicing some apples, and ensuring I was eating well and staying healthy.

But when she was about to run out to get some fancy truffles, I quickly stopped her. “Let’s not waste money on truffles. Eggs will do just fine. Truffles don’t taste that good.”

“Are you saying my cooking sucks?” She squinted her eyes at me dangerously, but I bravely nodded.

She pouted, “Look who’s talking. Let’s agree that neither of us will win a cooking show, okay?”

I laughed genuinely, feeling light-hearted.

Then I turned stern. “Jade, I need you to find me a divorce lawyer.”

Jade stared at me before she spoke, “Are you sure you won’t tell him the truth? He’d regret it if he knew.”

I shook my head firmly, not wanting to say. The breakup was ugly. I didn’t want him to find me or feel guilty. Now that we lost even the initial affection for each other, why bother?

“Melanie, if you guys divorce now, and he finds out the truth later, he’ll be devastated.” Jade knew all about the love and hate between Clyde and me and thought I was being too harsh on myself.

But I felt that knowing the truth would only make it worse for Clyde and me.

“He doesn’t love me anymore. What, do you think we’d last on pity? Besides, I haven’t loved him for years. All I want now is to live well and focus on my treatment. Who knows? Maybe I’ll make medical history.” I struggled with the last few words because they were a lie.

I did hate him, but he was also in my heart. I didn’t know how much love was left, but it was there. So, divorcing at the moment while there was still a sliver of affection seemed like the best path for both of us.

Jade hugged me, her eyes filled with compassion. She finally nodded. “Okay, I’ll find you the best lawyer. We’re over him.”

I silently lowered my head, regretting ever being with him. I should have never given him a chance if it weren’t for certain circumstances. Perhaps our messy breakup had turned me into his obsession. Now, he should be able to let go with someone else by his side.

Clyde hadn’t contacted me all day.

Caught up in his new life, he naturally didn’t have time for his wife in name only.

I was happy to stay at Jade’s, even planning to split the rent with her. It seemed a good plan to stay there long-term.