The Divorce That Shattered His World novel Chapter 22

Evelyn felt like thunder had struck her ears. Her hand, still clutching the phone, slowly dropped as Mrs. Shelton's voice faded into silence.

Realizing Evelyn wasn't going to respond, Mrs. Shelton sighed and hung up.

Steve walked out of the bedroom, frowning when he saw her frozen in place. "What's wrong?"

"His mom called," Evelyn said, her voice hollow. She turned to him, her eyes clouded with confusion. "He has liver cancer. They say he doesn't have much time left."

She reached out, and Steve pulled her into his arms, his warmth grounding her as they sat on the sofa. His voice was low, almost hesitant. "Do you regret it?"

Do you regret leaving him? Do you regret coming here with me?

Evelyn shook her head. "I just… didn't expect life to be so unpredictable. Steve, since we have some time off, will you come back to the country with me?"

Steve didn't answer right away. When she thought he'd fallen asleep, she gently pushed him away—only to find him staring at her with a look of pure betrayal, like a puppy about to be abandoned.

She rolled her eyes and ruffled his hair. "He's dying, Steve. Don't be jealous. It's just one meeting. Think of it as closing the book on a failed marriage."

Evelyn returned to the country with Steve by her side.

She knocked on the hospital door, and Mrs. Shelton stepped out. Her expression was a mix of relief and bitterness. "I didn't think you'd come."

Evelyn tightened her grip on Steve's hand. "I'm only here to see him once. After this, I won't come back."

They'd been married for three years. Before she found out about his affair with Stella, he hadn't been a terrible husband. Hearing about his illness now, Evelyn couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness.