The caption read: "[A happy trip with Max! You're the best buddy ever! #Throwback]"
The date? The same day Stacey died—the day he’d abandoned her.
I slammed my phone shut, my fists clenching tight. Those two, carefree and oblivious, living their lives while my daughter lay six feet under? The injustice seared through me.
Back home, I began packing my bags. There was no reason to stay with Maximus anymore. He’d found a replacement.
As I descended the stairs, luggage in tow, I encountered the sight of Maximus and Lalaina. He was carrying her, displaying their affection openly. Lalaina gave me a smirk, saying *I have your husband now.*
"Carrie! Sorry, I forgot to tell you Max and I went to the beach. Hope you’re not mad, sister?" Lalaina’s voice dripped with mockery.
I forced a smile. "Of course! Do whatever you want. I won’t mind." Inside, I was boiling, wanting nothing more than to end their smug existence.
As I maneuvered around them, Maximus stepped into my path.
"Where are you going, Carrie?" His tone was serious, though a hint of derision lingered.
"Don’t tell me you’re being dramatic again?"