Being married to Mike for so long had worn him down. I felt smothered by his never-ending quest for money and power. But I had something else planned.
Mike was happy that he got the house, car, and savings when the divorce papers were signed. I gave a small smile because I knew my real plan was coming together.
As I walked out of the lawyer’s office, I faked a depressed look. It poured down rain, which matched my sad mood. But in a passing window, I could see a hint of a smile in my own eyes.
A few weeks ago, our marriage felt like a show. Mike was smothering himself with his love of luxury. I pretended to be the loving wife, but cracks appeared. The fights got worse, and his ego got too big to handle.
I agreed to everything Mike asked for in the breakup. My lawyer gave me a funny look, but I knew what I was doing. Mike could have the prizes; I was just setting up the scene.
When Mike called the next morning, he was upset and angry. He growled, “What did you do?”
I smiled and kept my cool. “Enjoying your ‘win’, Mike?” My breakup wasn’t a loss; it was the start of a new life.
I had been getting ready for this moment in secret. Mike’s greed kept him from seeing that freedom and self-discovery are what really make you strong, not material things.
I smiled bigger as I hung up the phone. I was ready for the start of my trip.
