In the snowy scene, Daniel's tall figure stood out. I thought I'd be devastated, ready to call him for an explanation. But strangely, my heart felt calm. As I thought of the blood, it felt like a part of me was leaking away. All my overwhelming love for Daniel seemed to flow out with this child, little by little.
I took a cab home alone.
The news of this child's loss hit me hard and fast. I had no energy to think; all I wanted was to brew some ginger soup to warm up and get some sleep.
Just as I finally drifted off, the lights in my room flipped on. The sudden brightness made it hard for me to open my eyes. "Why is the house such a mess? You're home all day; can't you clean up?" I remembered the pile of dirty dishes from my ginger soup, but I felt awful all over, too weak to move.
Daniel thought I was just sulking. "It's just a bracelet; how long are you going to stay mad? I can buy you a new one!" He'd completely forgotten our plans for today. He thought I was still upset about him giving my borrowed bracelet to Ada.
I sighed, "I'm tired and not feeling well; I want to sleep." His irritation flared at my indifference, and he turned to the guest room. I mustered the strength to switch off the light and fell into a deep sleep until noon.
When I woke up, Daniel had sent me a message. "I was too busy yesterday to check my phone. Let's go out for dinner tonight. Dress nicely." Normally, I'd have been thrilled, and excited to get ready, but now, I didn't even want to put on lipstick.
When the time came, I still didn't see Daniel. Instead of an explanation, he sent me a location. When I arrived, I caught a hint of disdain in his eyes. "Why did you come dressed like this? Today's client is important."
In the past, Daniel didn't want me interfering with his work; he preferred I stayed home, handling the household and taking care of him. I thought this dinner might be his way of apologizing, but it turned out the client called out to me first.
"Mia? Long time no see! You look so much thinner. How have you been?" It was Christopher, one of Daniel's important clients and someone I had worked with when I first started my career.
I forced a wry smile. No wonder Daniel had invited me; I thought I'd be the focus, but clearly, I wasn't.
We chatted briefly, and Christopher expressed his disappointment about my resignation. Meanwhile, Daniel had already ordered a feast of spicy dishes.