Who's Crying Now, Ex-Husband? novel Chapter 1

January 15th, Kingsford.

On a deep winter's night, thick snowflakes drifted down, blanketing the ground in a heavy layer that quickly turned to slush under the constant tread of pedestrians and vehicles.

At the curb sat a sleek blue Audi.

Mila Sutherland, wrapped snugly in a white down coat, clutched a bouquet of freshly bought roses as she made her way to the car, dialing Lysander Montgomery's number.

Today marked their eighth wedding anniversary.

She had wrapped up work early, hoping to surprise her husband with a candlelit dinner to celebrate making it through the infamous seven-year itch, stepping into their ninth year of marriage.

The first call went unanswered.

She tried twice more, waiting patiently each time until a cold voice finally came through.

"What is it?"

Mila's smile waned, but she gently reminded him, "We planned to have dinner out today, remember? The restaurant is..."

"Busy with work."

Before Mila could say another word, the line went dead.

Standing in the biting wind, Mila gripped her phone tightly, shivering as a gust cut through her. A wave of disappointment washed over her.

Did Lysander even remember what day it was?

Plans they made were always being postponed or brushed aside; he couldn't spare even a single evening for dinner.

A sudden fatigue settled over her.

Closing her eyes briefly, Mila gathered herself and called her son, Adrian Montgomery.

She had arranged for him to stay with his grandmother so she and Lysander could have a rare evening alone.