{"id":1780,"date":"2024-12-05T14:57:39","date_gmt":"2024-12-05T14:57:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/momentsunfolded.com\/?p=1780"},"modified":"2024-12-05T14:57:45","modified_gmt":"2024-12-05T14:57:45","slug":"woman-turned-to-a-stranger-for-help-after-her-husbands-betrayal-only-to-face-a-bigger-surprise","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/momentsunfolded.com\/archives\/1780","title":{"rendered":"Woman Turned To a Stranger for Help After Her Husband\u2019s Betrayal, Only to Face a Bigger Surprise\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class='\"entry-header\"'>\n<div class='\"entry-content\"'>\n<p>While navigating a difficult divorce, Ellis meets a bold young man at a bar who offers to transform her life. His charm and confidence seem like the perfect distraction, but their connection soon leads to unexpected revelations that force Ellis to confront her past \u2014 and her family \u2014 in ways she never anticipated.\n</p><p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ellis remembered an evening with her husband, Mark. They had been married for almost 25 years. Their life had turned into a dull, predictable routine.\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/VOLJumIyapn0OvKM0t8P6Sa2ArI4oxK4TARWY80uilI\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNTZhNjc4NGMwNTUzMGU0NTNjODRjZDAxMWYwNGYxZWI2Y2YzMTZiNGZmZjQ5MmI5YTgwMTU5Y2QyYThlMzRmMC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/56a6784c05530e453c84cd011f04f1eb6cf316b4fff492b9a80159cd2a8e34f0.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>That evening, Ellis noticed something was off. Mark looked uneasy, shifting in his seat.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong?\u201d Ellis asked, watching him closely.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cNothing, everything\u2019s fine,\u201d Mark said, waving her off. But Ellis knew he was lying. She had always been able to tell when he wasn\u2019t honest. She narrowed her eyes, waiting for him to speak.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Mark sighed deeply. \u201cAlright, we need to talk,\u201d he said finally.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/ZQkGtqKGmItO0SBf_6L6Op-jwUfEZMUlyKWOpIBesuE\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmIzNjk3MzFjMzY0MzM2NmVlZjBjNDExYmNhYzQ3ZTNjZGRlNTJjMTlkZDEyMDFhNTE4NGMwNDI2ZDRlMTg2MC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MjA0OCZoZWlnaHQ9MjA0OA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/6b369731c3643366eef0c411bcac47e3cdde52c19dd1201a5184c0426d4e1860.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"2048\"' height='\"2048\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhy? What happened?\u201d Ellis asked, her voice tense.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cDo you remember my business trip from a few weeks ago?\u201d Mark asked, avoiding her gaze.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYes, with Donna,\u201d Ellis said slowly.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Mark looked at the floor. \u201cWe slept together,\u201d he admitted.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/GUoov1Fx9HkguKLfnz_WB1OkU4yMIAYb87co98aXApw\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZjk0MzExMjBiZTUwYmI1NDE4ZWRlMDk3NmRkNmZjZWQ1OTE2ZDk4ZDQ3YmRiMDdlMjUzYTNkNzMxZTc5ODQ1Zi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/f9431120be50bb5418ede0976dd6fced5916d98d47bdb07e253a3d731e79845f.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou what?\u201d Ellis said, her voice barely above a whisper. She couldn\u2019t believe what she was hearing.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI don\u2019t know why it happened,\u201d Mark said. \u201cI\u2019ve been thinking a lot about our 25th anniversary. You\u2019re the only woman I\u2019ve ever been with. I guess I started wondering about things, and it all happened so fast. But, Ellis, it was a mistake. I\u2019ve felt terrible ever since. I love you, only you.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHow could you do this to me?\u201d Ellis asked. She didn\u2019t yell, but her heart felt heavy, as though it might break.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/jO6bUh0bXFacRcPT6Xi5ltUKvn8rfIt62phWYTZX_rI\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vY2YzYTlmYzM3NDM2YTkzNGJmNTAwOTU4OTYxODQ0ZjliZTViYzY5YmI2ZDZjNGUwYzY3M2Y5NDQ2MDQxOGQ3MC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/cf3a9fc37436a934bf500958961844f9be5bc69bb6d6c4e0c673f94460418d70.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI\u2019m so sorry. Please forgive me. I\u2019ll never do it again, I promise,\u201d Mark said, his voice trembling.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cLeave,\u201d Ellis said firmly.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cDon\u2019t do this, please,\u201d Mark begged.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cGo. I can\u2019t look at you right now,\u201d Ellis said.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Mark nodded and walked to the bedroom. Ellis sat silently, her mind racing, barely noticing when he left.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/N7sVpnsZ5Lr5rgicNU_wFMPGrYmzvRVaHgIVJcj1EfM\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTg5ZGI4ZGMzZjk3NDRiMGU3N2YyYmFhZjUxZjQ1OTE0ODI5MjY4ZmRkOThmOWVlZGQxYjY3ODcyOTNlODM0Ni5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/a89db8dc3f9744b0e77f2baaf51f45914829268fdd98f9eedd1b6787293e8346.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThis is the saddest cocktail I\u2019ve ever seen,\u201d a voice said, pulling Ellis out of her thoughts. She blinked and looked around, realizing where she was.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>She sat at the bar, staring at the divorce papers Mark had signed. They sat right in front of her.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>She had filed for divorce and forced Mark to sign them. Yet, her own name remained unsigned.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/g4qlCZn8ZCW-KmwEbzJyAJ1Jzf8UaWtnsEsmUIIDWrU\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjNjZjdhOTcyZTNiZjE0MWJhZmM1Y2QwY2M2ZWU4ZGMwNGRmMTAxNWQwMDY1OGRlN2ZmZjcwNzA5OWY4MDM5ZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/23cf7a972e3bf141bafc5cd0cc6ee8dc04df1015d00658de7fff707099f8039e.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>It had been weeks since she learned about Mark\u2019s affair, but she still couldn\u2019t move on.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ellis turned toward the voice. She saw a young man standing nearby. He looked barely older than her daughter.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat do you want?\u201d she asked, frowning. \u201cI\u2019m not in the mood to talk.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMy name\u2019s Leo,\u201d he said with a smirk. \u201cI\u2019ve been watching you come here night after night. You sit alone, looking miserable. Then you whine to the bartender about your marriage. It\u2019s getting old. Pretty pathetic, honestly.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/mtAnXVrRp9jcE-rmpfvP6GEL3dE07LhmJ5fHADzf69I\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNGJmODg1NDZjYjU2MjUyZTFhMDRlNDM2ODdhN2M5MzM0NTczNWUyMzI3ZmM5YzU2MjhkYzY0NjEwY2Y2Y2E3OC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/4bf88546cb56252e1a04e43687a7c93345735e2327fc9c5628dc64610cf6ca78.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIf you came here to insult me, don\u2019t bother,\u201d Ellis snapped. \u201cAnd I\u2019ve seen you leave with a different woman every night. So tell me, who\u2019s more pathetic? At least I know what love is.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cOuch,\u201d Leo said with a laugh. \u201cYou\u2019ve got some fight in you. I like that. Look, I\u2019m not here to make fun of you. I\u2019m here to offer some help. Give me a few days, and I\u2019ll get you back in shape.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIn shape for what?\u201d Ellis asked, narrowing her eyes.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/oeH9eQfNDXrqV8wM4Ry-2dElf4lUV-zxXqS4FsXENMw\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjc5NTA5MzFhMTBkNjEyZjZhZDE0NDVkZjAwNzI1MzkzOGNhNGU5YjliMzVmNWVmYjhjNTJlNjEyYmJkODU3MC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTgwOCZoZWlnaHQ9MjQwMA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/b7950931a10d612f6ad1445df007253938ca4e9b9b35f5efb8c52e612bbd8570.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1808\"' height='\"2400\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cFor seducing men, of course,\u201d Leo replied.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI\u2019m 42,\u201d Ellis said. \u201cI\u2019ve only ever been with one man.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cExactly,\u201d Leo said. \u201cThat\u2019s why I want to help. So, what do you say?\u201d He held out his hand.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat\u2019s in it for you?\u201d Ellis asked suspiciously.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/-oYCnbJOug1fXkyb4B_78kgyTxG5XRFrMQGMEv7hrLk\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOGYzZTFmZDYyNTg2YjQzZTA4MjRhODNhYmQ5MmE1OWZkZWQ1YzBjNTJhM2Q1ZjAwN2E5OTU4ZmY0NDc2ZWUwNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/8f3e1fd62586b43e0824a83abd92a59fded5c0c52a3d5f007a9958ff4476ee07.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIt\u2019s a challenge,\u201d Leo said.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ellis sighed. Then, reluctantly, she shook his hand. She wasn\u2019t interested in flirting with men, but she figured a distraction might not be the worst idea.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Over the next few days, Leo dove headfirst into helping Ellis reinvent herself.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He took her shopping at trendy boutiques, insisting she try on clothes that were far from her usual style.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/cbRT8wmagOJEm8pmIqOgG35ywIO7OGpobT4hd9OH8lk\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZmZhNThkMzViZmRmYTdlNDVkMWVmYWUzMWJhNmYxZTA4NmI2NDBiZjhhNGU1NzU2ZDAzOTdjZDAyMmVkODRlNC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/ffa58d35bfdfa7e45d1efae31ba6f1e086b640bf8a4e5756d0397cd022ed84e4.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ellis initially hesitated, standing awkwardly in front of the mirror in fitted dresses and bold colors.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He didn\u2019t stop there. Leo coached her on how to hold her head high and how to speak with conviction.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/nfhHlUojcbB-7nu8C0HCpZm-jVLAPqOZKQGWbz35a7g\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZGRlM2QyMWFkMGFmM2FhNWZjN2JkZTQ0NDlhM2FkNWIxNWIyZDM2MDgwZGJkODBjYzUxMWUyMmY4MmYxYzExZi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/dde3d21ad0af3aa5fc7bde4449a3ad5b15b2d36080dbd80cc511e22f82f1c11f.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He even pointed out men at the bar for her to approach, handing her opening lines. At first, Ellis felt ridiculous.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>She stumbled over her words, her hands shaking as she introduced herself. But after a few tries, something changed.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Men smiled at her. Some even asked for her number. For the first time in years, Ellis felt seen.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/KvqmMnoDbCfwliFQSH-aQT3uef_eQFj02cHL1zbky_s\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZjVjM2M5ZjVlNDVlODM2ZGE4NzJiNWMwZDNhODMzYjE5ZTQ3MGM0ZDAwMWI3YzA3NDNkYWI0YjhjZTk1NWFlZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/f5c3c9f5e45e836da872b5c0d3a833b19e470c4d001b7c0743dab4b8ce955aed.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Still, one thing nagged at her. Leo\u2019s charm with women, though effortless, felt empty.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He flirted easily, laughed at their jokes, and disappeared with a new woman every night. One evening, as they sat at the bar, Ellis broke the silence.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhy do you do it?\u201d she asked. \u201cDon\u2019t you want something real?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/KhlwshEWi61nhBxCT4Q782hLQCaS2z4gj9xud0Lcaxg\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vM2JiN2I2NjI5YzY1NWMwYTQyYjgyMTM1YTIyNzczOWU1YmY2ZDBjZDRiODZmZjIyMDU1MGZmZTY3MzE5OGY5MC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9ODE2JmhlaWdodD0xNDU2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/3bb7b6629c655c0a42b82135a227739e5bf6d0cd4b86ff220550ffe673198f90.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"816\"' height='\"1456\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Leo avoided her gaze. \u201cWhat\u2019s the point?\u201d he said.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou\u2019re scared of getting hurt,\u201d Ellis said gently.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Leo paused before answering. \u201cI\u2019m not ready for anything serious,\u201d he finally admitted. \u201cI\u2019ve seen what happens when people fall in love \u2014 it ruins them.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ellis shook her head but didn\u2019t press him further. She knew fear when she saw it.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/wHCFrfNO_Re4TsjCVqGCT9qI5yj-SDRK8jhsK0IT35c\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzExZTIwYWZkMDBjMDIwNGE4ZDM5NzU2MzA4YzY2YmY0N2VhYmEyYjI1MmEwNDdhM2U1ODllZDVkYjVlNTE3Zi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9ODE2JmhlaWdodD0xNDU2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/c11e20afd00c0204a8d39756308c66bf47eaba2b252a047a3e589ed5db5e517f.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"816\"' height='\"1456\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>One quiet evening, Ellis sat at the bar, sipping her drink, when a man approached her. His name was Ryan.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He was polite, with an easy smile, and spoke confidently.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He complimented her dress and smiled at her often. But as she sat there, Ellis felt her thoughts drifting.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/-06oiLIct2C5IOCwsQcVw_-CyxmQ7W1MiFdyLWLuQIQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMTI3NjU5YTZhNDg5ODYxYjJmMWFkZmM0OTAzMGJlZTc3MGYxYzdjMzExN2U3YmNlYTI4MGQ3ZTEyY2U4NWU4NS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/127659a6a489861b2f1adfc49030bee770f1c7c3117e7bcea280d7e12ce85e85.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>She remembered how Mark used to make her laugh until her sides hurt. She thought about how he always seemed to know what she needed, even when she didn\u2019t.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI need to use the restroom,\u201d Ellis said, suddenly standing up. But instead of going back, she walked out of the restaurant, got into a cab, and went home.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/9um7pJGEbQUmwNsgUyBYaXU7Ah1RSlNYUCXlMyigtsg\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNzMyZWYxYTQwMWI4NDI5ZTA4NjE5ZTVmNTRhYTUwY2I3MTk2OGMyODg4N2FkZTk0ZDA4MDRiMTU1OWI2YmJjMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/732ef1a401b8429e08619e5f54aa50cb71968c28887ade94d0804b1559b6bbc3.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The house was silent. Family photos hung on the walls, staring back at her. Ellis saw the unsigned divorce papers on the table. She picked up her phone and texted Leo.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/pNxTWxO5Da_78W0dDRk03I7hVbCd_4Ri8koPqgaSp14\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmQ4YjE4MmI5YjQwMjZhMTk2MGE4YTM4NDEyY2I0NGMwZTg0Yjg4NGU1M2MzOWRmMjYxNTAwYWY5ZWI1YjFmMC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MjQwMCZoZWlnaHQ9MTM0NQ.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/6d8b182b9b4026a1960a8a38412cb44c0e84b884e53c39df261500af9eb5b1f0.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"2400\"' height='\"1345\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only. <i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>\n\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/9QBTHcV_1o-UHiX-UDBSt8zoj-izT9-KmMHMB-c3s-M\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZGUxYTJhYjJlZDY0MWYyZmZhMzQwNjgwZDA0ZTgwODJiYWNiODZhMDk1MTc0OGM0NDJlZDQ0OGQ2ZDg3M2YyYi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/de1a2ab2ed641f2ffa340680d04e8082bacb86a0951748c442ed448d6d873f2b.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only. <i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Twenty minutes later, Ellis heard the sharp sound of a car horn outside. She stepped onto her porch and saw Leo climbing out of his car. His face was tense, and he looked frustrated.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/MR8stBwFDDQpHyWdNRnRUS5QJXxBlrE_awmAXOF1iPs\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNDFhZTJmYTI0NzdiN2Y2NTI1MTJiOTFhOGJkMDhmMjA2NTY3N2ViZTNhNTZjMmQ2N2EyODMwZGJkNDkyYmU2ZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9ODE2JmhlaWdodD0xNDU2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/41ae2fa2477b7f652512b91a8bd08f2065677ebe3a56c2d67a2830dbd492be6d.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"816\"' height='\"1456\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou can\u2019t go back to him!\u201d Leo shouted as he walked toward her.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ellis crossed her arms. \u201cI\u2019ve realized something. I love him. I always have. No one else comes close,\u201d she said firmly.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHe cheated on you!\u201d Leo yelled, his voice rising. \u201cHe betrayed you!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ellis stood her ground. \u201cI know. But I think I can forgive him.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/hBDcPTzUGKXHbI_HjIZi8w6_jDFp_Y6gphZtUmXYEdY\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNGM2NTEwM2ExZThlZTA3MTBjMWQwMjAxMTBlMWE0ZDY5Y2ViZWQ5ZjU3NjU4NDEwOWQyNzAxZTBmMGZiMTA2OC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/4c65103a1e8ee0710c1d020110e1a4d69cebed9f576584109d2701e0f0fb1068.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou can\u2019t forgive that!\u201d Leo snapped, shaking his head.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhy not?\u201d Ellis asked. \u201cYou\u2019ve changed. You\u2019ve found someone. Why can\u2019t he?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIt\u2019s\u2026 it\u2019s not the same,\u201d Leo muttered, avoiding her eyes.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI think it is,\u201d Ellis replied, her voice steady.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Leo paused, then threw up his hands. \u201cFine. Do whatever you want. I\u2019m done,\u201d he said sharply. Without another word, he turned and got back into his car.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/u99tFJGOLvQ0LQnu01BKWYl1_xVL8S5dk824TEb9NZ4\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTdmZGRmNDdkYWJlYzA3YmQyZTJiMWNkNzRhNjM3YzYxZjFhMmNjMDI2ZWYyNGZiZWE4ZGNjZTUxMzRlMDA5NS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTM0NCZoZWlnaHQ9ODk2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/a7fddf47dabec07bd2e2b1cd74a637c61f1a2cc026ef24fbea8dcce5134e0095.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1344\"' height='\"896\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ellis watched as he drove off, his tires kicking up dust on the quiet street.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The next morning, she woke with a heavy heart. That day marked what would have been Ellis and Mark\u2019s 25th wedding anniversary.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>She decided it was time to talk to him. Taking a deep breath, she texted Mark, asking him to come over without explaining why.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/URYBoGfEA1nmuPxc_ucfGs7iampDbL89KkERlANiNWQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vODNlMjhlMzE3YzQ4OTg3OGI5YTNmM2M0NGM5N2E1ZmQ2YjQwYmViYzEyNjFiODBlMGEwZGU2M2I0ODhmMmE2Ni5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/83e28e317c489878b9a3f3c44c97a5fd6b40bebc1261b80e0a0de63b488f2a66.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>She spent the afternoon preparing dinner, using recipes she had made on their anniversaries before.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Later that evening, the doorbell rang. Ellis opened the door to find Mark standing there, his shoulders slumped and his eyes heavy with regret.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHey,\u201d Mark said softly as the door opened.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHi,\u201d Ellis replied, stepping aside. \u201cCome in.\u201d She gestured toward the living room, her voice steady but nervous.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/p_T4of962hPDIGuPR0pX4_8uAmwidgQP9XZBy1fy4V4\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMDZhOGU2NzE0OGY4ZDk4MjY2YmE5NjBjZjZlOWU0YjIwNmUxNzFlMjgzYWNiOTY0ZjVhOTYyZjQ4MWU4ZGVkMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/06a8e67148f8d98266ba960cf6e9e4b206e171e283acb964f5a962f481e8ded3.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Mark walked in slowly, his eyes scanning the room. \u201cSo, what did you want to talk about? Is this about the divorce? Are we making it official?\u201d His tone was cautious, his shoulders tense.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI didn\u2019t sign the papers,\u201d Ellis said, her words measured.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Mark froze. \u201cWhat? Why not?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Before Ellis could answer, the doorbell rang. She frowned, glancing at the clock. \u201cWho could that be?\u201d she wondered aloud.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/DjzLsBI1E1tDpx8tHzygoYPKjFmO7r7Zmbd5qwf3uD0\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOTVhYzg2NTFjNDljOTExMjc0NjA2NzFmMjk5YWEzMDI0OGJkYTE1YmZjNjhiMzQ4NmE2YWM5OWMzODVlMDgwOC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/95ac8651c49c91127460671f299aa30248bda15bfc68b3486a6ac99c385e0808.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cDid you tell Sara about the divorce?\u201d Mark asked, his brow furrowing.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cNo, I couldn\u2019t. Did you?\u201d Ellis asked, meeting his gaze.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cNo,\u201d Mark said, shaking his head.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ellis sighed. \u201cDamn. She knows it\u2019s our anniversary. She probably came to celebrate,\u201d she said, walking to the door.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>When Ellis opened it, she was stunned to see Sara standing there \u2014 but her daughter wasn\u2019t alone. Standing beside her was Leo.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/xiJSEe6Yjwl7pQOhK8uEKbsldsPlAp6NVFnfTwLyINQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNTVjNDQ2NzNhNWI1MzMxNWJkYjNhMDVlNDhmMjc1Mzc2NGE4Y2UxODBkOGZmM2I1ZmRkODBkYWMzNGQ4YzI1Mi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9ODE2JmhlaWdodD0xNDU2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/55c44673a5b53315bdb3a05e48f2753764a8ce180d8ff3b5fdd80dac34d8c252.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"816\"' height='\"1456\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat are you doing with my daughter?!\u201d Ellis demanded, glaring at Leo.\n\n</p><div>\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMom,\u201d Sara said, beaming. \u201cThis is my boyfriend, Leo. I thought today would be a great time to introduce him to you.\u201d\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ellis stared at Leo in disbelief. \u201cNo way! Do you know he\u2019s a womanizer?!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHe was,\u201d Sara said, her smile fading. \u201cBut\u2026 Wait. How do you know that?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/KIkx7hsu5J0HoK7ZIbWu27Z5gEAIyINzckQJODna4NA\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDgxYTE0MzEyZDMwM2ZkOTkwNGFhOWU2NmJmM2JhNmJiZDZhNjE1MDkyMzk2NDA2OTYwZTBhYTM1MGNiZGJlZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/d81a14312d303fd9904aa9e66bf3ba6bbd6a615092396406960e0aa350cbdbee.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI was teaching her how to flirt with men,\u201d Leo said casually, then blinked in confusion. \u201cWait\u2026 how is she your mom? She\u2019s way too young!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhy do you think I got married at 17?\u201d Ellis replied dryly.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat\u2019s going on here?\u201d Sara asked, her voice rising. \u201cWhy were you teaching my mom how to flirt? She\u2019s married!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThey\u2019re divorcing,\u201d Leo interjected. Then, noticing Mark, he added, \u201cOr maybe not.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/Iw50E2KTRVgIjxWD1oUFw6QkEgvU9x181Pe7SP9ybao\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNTUxZDdlNmVkZTIxNWU1ZTc5NjVjZDM1MDQ3ZDQ0YTIwNTM5NTQ2N2JmYmI3Y2ViNjAzYjcwMWU4YTMwY2NkOC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/551d7e6ede215e5e7965cd35047d44a205395467bfbb7ceb603b701e8a30ccd8.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat?!\u201d Sara exclaimed. \u201cWhy didn\u2019t you tell me?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ellis looked at her daughter, her face softening. \u201cBecause I wasn\u2019t sure yet. And today, I invited your dad to tell him I want to get back together.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Mark\u2019s head jerked up. \u201cReally?\u201d he asked, his voice filled with cautious hope. Ellis nodded.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Leo crossed his arms. \u201cHe doesn\u2019t deserve you.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.womanlylive.com\/FCHb8toxZIMJ9lp8rE_HaDBHjBVpiHMWLHfTOM87Fsc\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjUxN2U4ZDhjMTAzMTkyYzZlYTFjZjJlNDQxNTY1MDUxMDU3M2RhYmQwN2RhY2NjY2Y2ODUzN2I0YTgyNTMzYi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.womanlylive.com%5C/b517e8d8c103192c6ea1cf2e4415650510573dabd07daccccf68537b4a82533b.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ellis raised an eyebrow. \u201cAnd you don\u2019t deserve my daughter.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou said I\u2019ve changed,\u201d Leo retorted.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cAnd that\u2019s true,\u201d Sara said, stepping forward. \u201cMom, we\u2019re in love. And it was Leo\u2019s idea to meet you.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI didn\u2019t know you were her parents,\u201d Leo said defensively.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n</div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></i></p></picture></div></div></div></div></i></p></picture></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></header>