And just when I thought I was done listening, he added, “Look, I get that you don’t like her. Fine. I’ll keep her away from you. But she’s carrying my kid, Elise. I still have to be there for her. During the week, I’ll be with you. On weekends, I’ll be with her.”
His tone left no space for debate.
I didn’t scream. I didn’t beg. I didn’t fight.
I just gave him a quiet “Mm-hm.”
And then, without a second thought, I logged onto the Global Medical Relief website and submitted my application to volunteer.
Because of those promises we once made? They were nothing but empty echoes of a past I was done holding onto.
It was time to let him go.
And it was time to free myself.
———
Elise’s POV
As Hayes went on about his plans, his words floated around me like a vague cloud. I wasn’t really listening anymore. My fingers were flying across the keyboard, filling out the Global Medical Relief application without a second thought.
The qualifications flashed on the screen. Every box was checked.
I didn’t hesitate. I was done hesitating.
When he finally stopped talking, the only sound in the room was the rhythmic clacking of my keys.
Then came the irritation in his voice. “Elise, are you even listening to me?”