With the funds secured, I waited for Claire. “Claire, we need to talk,” I told her. “I know about the financial issues. Let’s sort this out and move forward.” She tried to explain, and we decided that a mutual separation was the best path. “Don’t worry about me. I’ll be just fine,” I assured her.
As I left, Claire was emotional, but we both knew it was for the best. I checked into a motel, giving us both some space to think. Claire texted, “I’m sorry. I really did care about you.” I replied, “I know. But sometimes change is necessary.”
Tomorrow was a new day, and for the first time in years, I was looking forward to it.
