But here’s the real kicker. Last week, while getting coffee at Dunkin’, I overheard some guys from James’s old office talking. Turns out he’s been calling and emailing, trying to get his job back. He even showed up in the lobby once. They didn’t even bother calling security, just let him stand there until he got tired and left.
His new life isn’t exactly what he planned. No more fancy gym membership. He works out at the same Planet Fitness as me now. We awkwardly avoided each other in the parking lot once. Aurora’s back on dating apps. His important business contacts don’t return his calls.
Meanwhile, I’m doing all the things he said I couldn’t, paying bills, fixing minor house problems, managing my own budget. Nothing extraordinary, just regular adult stuff that he convinced me was beyond my capabilities.
I found our old wedding photos while cleaning last weekend. That girl in the photos, trying so hard to be what he wanted, I barely recognize her now.
The most sad, satisfying moment wasn’t some big revenge scene. It was yesterday at the bank, depositing my paycheck, yes, I still like doing it in person. The teller was the same one who helped me open my own account 6 months ago when I was shaking and scared. She smiled and said:
“You look happier.”
And you know what? I am.