“Another quiet morning,” I whispered, looking out at the ocean. It had been years since my divorce, and solitude had become my norm.
“I don’t need anyone,” I’d remind myself while writing novels in peace. Yet, a part of me wondered if this was enough.
Then Oliver appeared. One morning, I noticed him walking along the beach with his golden retriever. His friendly greeting sparked something in me.
Over the next days, I looked forward to seeing him. One afternoon, his dog ran into my garden. Oliver’s apology led to a conversation about our shared love for writing. When I asked him to dinner, he agreed.
The evening was perfect until a woman—Oliver’s ex-wife, Rebecca—interrupted us. Her rude demand for Oliver’s attention left me feeling invisible. He left with her, and I was left alone, humiliated.
Two days later, Oliver arrived at my door with flowers and an apology. Rebecca’s outburst was part of her pattern to ruin his relationships. He explained he panicked and should have told me earlier. To make amends, he invited me to a literary event.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney
Oliver revealed that Rebecca had taken control of his life after their separation, using guilt to manipulate him. He had been trying to escape her influence but hadn’t succeeded.
Feeling overwhelmed, I left, realizing I couldn’t handle the drama. Days later, I saw Rebecca moving out of Oliver’s house. Oliver appeared resolute, telling Rebecca it was over. He demanded she stop interfering, threatening legal action if necessary.
Watching him take control made me rethink everything. I saw the strength I needed from him, and it gave me hope for a future together, free from the past’s shadows.
