After Michael left, Madeline stared at the invitation in her hand with a victorious glint in her eyes. She muttered, Jessica, you were right. Find their weakness, and it’s easy to control anyone.
“Too bad, when you taught me these tricks, you probably didn’t expect they’ll be used against you one day, did you?”
Just the thought of forcing Jessica out and pushing her to the point of filing for divorce filled Madeline with a sense of triumph.
She knew Jessica better than anyone that she was a proud and strong–willed woman. And now, she was completely out of the picture.
There were eight days left before Jessica officially walked away from Brian’s life..
Since that phone call where Brian told Jessica that Jacob had gotten into a fight with another kid to defend her, he hadn’t contacted Jessica again.
Jessica stayed at home to recover, while Maria took care of her, cooking all the dishes she used to love. In just two days, Jessica felt like she’d already gained weight.
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Simon called Jessica to update her on the divorce proceedings. “Jessi, we’ve just received the court notice. The court date is set for two weeks from how. In the meantime, maybe you should-”
Simon didn’t know about the rift between Jessica and Jacob due to his busy schedule. Though he supported Jessica’s decision to divorce Brian, he couldn’t help but try to make her reconsider. After all, Jacob was already six.
Jessica responded calmly, “Thanks for the update. I’d like to invite you to dinner sometime. I’ll bring Gabi too. Let’s have a proper catch–up.”
She took a few steps back from her sketchpad as she chatted with Simon. At the same time, she scrutinized the fine details of her sketch.
Her parents kept the room where she used to draw for her. She had been spending her time in the room during the days, and it brought her unexpected peace.
Whenever she picked up her brushes in that familiar space, inspiration flowed endlessly. Besides restoring the illustration Jacob had ruined, she even sketched out several new drafts, almost ready for her upcoming exhibit.
Simon joked, “Sure, I’m available on Sunday night. Don’t forget you still owe me a drink.”
Jessica smiled, “How could I forget?” She knew Simon had a taste for fine wine.

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