"If you're upset, take some time off. Use my supplementary card, go on vacation for a few days. Come back when you've calmed down."
Hildegarde felt she had given Wilfred more than enough of a way out.
If he had any sense, he would take the lifeline.
"Hildegarde, I'm sorry. I don't love you anymore."
Wilfred shook his head slowly.
He had loved this woman for five years. He had given up everything for her.
Revolving around her, around the children, around this family.
And what had it gotten him?
The moment her first love returned from abroad, she had cast him aside like a worn-out shoe.
He was done.
"Hildegarde, let's get divorced."
"You—"
Her breathing grew ragged. Her porcelain skin flushed red.
"Wilfred, do you actually think I can't live without you? That my life depends on you?"
"If you insist on going down this road, then fine—I'll grant your wish!"
"Just don't come crying to me later!"
Scratch, scratch, scratch...
Snatching up a pen, Hildegarde furiously scrawled her signature across the divorce agreement.
Crack!
She hurled the ballpoint pen at Wilfred's feet. It shattered on impact.
"Wilfred, I hope you don't regret this."
"I'd love to see how you survive without me."