{"id":7078,"date":"2025-01-20T03:33:50","date_gmt":"2025-01-20T03:33:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/momentsunfolded.com\/?p=7078"},"modified":"2025-01-20T03:33:52","modified_gmt":"2025-01-20T03:33:52","slug":"i-couldnt-understand-my-husbands-distance-until-i-discovered-the-unusual-bills-story-of-the-day","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/momentsunfolded.com\/archives\/7078","title":{"rendered":"I Couldn\u2019t Understand My Husband\u2019s Distance Until I Discovered the Unusual Bills \u2013 Story of the Day"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class='\"entry-header\"'>\n<p>At nine months pregnant, I thought bending over to clean would be the hardest part of my life. But my husband\u2019s distance and a shocking discovery in his closet made me question everything. When I uncovered strange bills and a truth he\u2019d been hiding, I knew I had to face what was tearing us apart.\n</p><div class='\"entry-content\"'>\n<div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Cleaning at almost nine months pregnant was exhausting. My back ached with every movement, and my swollen feet protested as I shuffled from one corner of the room to the next.\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.thecelebritist.com\/QpKX7lVLNZVWMWcH4C9qcs-LV_0dSnfz24B2PsIyrIQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTFiZWJhNzcxNjhmMzNhZWJjMjczZjdlZmIzN2U3YTgxMDM4YjA3ZTYwNGNjYjdjY2ViZmY5NWRhMjIzNWRjYy5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/a1beba77168f33aebc273f7efb37e7a81038b07e604ccb7ccebff95da2235dcc.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\"'>But the mess had built up to the point where even I, usually able to overlook clutter, couldn\u2019t ignore it anymore.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The sight of dust on every surface seemed to mock me, whispering that I wasn\u2019t keeping up. And if I didn\u2019t care enough to tackle it, who else would?\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>As I wiped the shelf holding our family photos, my hands paused over a frame. A lump formed in my throat as I picked up the picture of Aaron and me.\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.thecelebritist.com\/zEepFn-_vIqBLkAp4uIOGz8LtGdlM1U49ry6d6O8WsM\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZGRkZGJiYzBhMjE0Y2Y4MGQ3ZTNmNTU3NTZmMmM0MmNhZTNlMmE3NDRjZWIxNjMzZDA4MjdlOTVjNDRjNjg2Yy5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/ddddbbc0a214cf80d7e3f55756f2c42cae3e2a744ceb1633d0827e95c44c686c.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.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The joy on our faces was so genuine back then. I could still hear the laughter from that day\u2014the day we cut into the cake and saw blue frosting, surrounded by cheers and smiles. We were having a boy. I thought it was the happiest day of my life.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Aaron\u2019s mom had talked endlessly about how I\u2019d finally understand her experience as a mother of boys.\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.thecelebritist.com\/eJ5RAbNMsCK2jnZBfon4CmYXGGUAy5QPRYrCjMkaG8c\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vODFjYjUwN2U0Y2RlMThiOTFiMjgwOWZiYWM5OWI2Y2FmMTEyYmQ0MmQ1YzZmY2NlMjIxZDc3ZWY4ZWUxZDljZi5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/81cb507e4cde18b91b2809fbac99b6caf112bd42d5c6fcce221d77ef8ee1d9cf.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\"'>Her voice had a sharpness to it, though, like she wasn\u2019t truly welcoming me into her world.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>She had disliked me from the start and was never shy about sharing her opinion that I wasn\u2019t the right match for her son.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I tried everything to win her over, but nothing seemed good enough.\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.thecelebritist.com\/HAU62a-UR7JNsqDGqRIYnmZtitNJ1NPBPYJHBkMvXrM\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOTg2NWViZTY3ODE5N2Q3Yjc1NDgwMmQ2NDIxYmFjMzgxMWQ1MDI2MmJhNzAxZDE1MTZiNzQ1N2Q3YzkxODE2NC5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/9865ebe678197d7b754802d6421bac3811d50262ba701d1516b7457d7c918164.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\"'>A tear slipped down my cheek as I put the frame back. That picture didn\u2019t feel real anymore.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Lately, Aaron barely looked at me. He was quiet, distracted, and distant. He came home late without explanations, leaving me to wonder and worry.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I couldn\u2019t help but feel like he was hiding something, even though I desperately wanted to believe he wasn\u2019t.\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.thecelebritist.com\/fek2zugZorvyw7CxCGi_d_ZaXmMVzg-zgiVrExwKMHc\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNTI2MTNhYWE2OGRhYzk3MTU4MjFlNGNmNGYzMTdkOTRmMzUxMjNmNzg4OWEwMjRlZTdkYTdlMDUzOGViMGI0YS5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/52613aaa68dac9715821e4cf4f317d94f35123f7889a024ee7da7e0538eb0b4a.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<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I heard the door open and moved quickly to the hallway, trying to push away the uneasiness building inside me. Aaron was there, looking tired and distracted.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHey,\u201d I said, hoping my voice sounded warm.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHey,\u201d he muttered without meeting my eyes.\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.thecelebritist.com\/adlvMdr0G9yybdlrfz8NO-bQLVAKQDmk6IFlh8veJ6U\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNGM1YTM4YzI5NWJmZjcwYmEzYmYxMGNhZWY1ZDY3ODcyYWVmMTVhZWI0NmJmMzE1MDI2NDAwYzUzOTIzOGVmMS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9OTI4JmhlaWdodD0xMjMy.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/4c5a38c295bff70ba3bf10caef5d67872aef15aeb46bf315026400c539238ef1.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"928\"' height='\"1232\"'>\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\"'>I hesitated. \u201cI\u2019ve been cleaning all afternoon,\u201d I said, forcing a light tone. \u201cAnd while I was dusting, I started thinking about your mom. The closer I get to my due date, the less she\u2019s been on my mind. I haven\u2019t heard from her in a while.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I smiled, trying to make it sound like a joke. \u201cThink she\u2019s finally warming up to me now that I\u2019m about to join the \u2018boy mom\u2019 club?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Aaron shrugged, his face blank. \u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d he said, brushing past me toward the bedroom.\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.thecelebritist.com\/Y8Yo5vnoOcyU-UokVmxIp0slPkzA7mJ2EH0p9EEVY8Q\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjBmNTc5NmEzZjg5NTIyNjE1NTA1NmMxYjM1OGYxODU2Zjk2Yzg4YTcxNzZhMTE3ZDA3NTg0MjAzNzI2YTc3OS5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/20f5796a3f895226155056c1b358f1856f96c88a7176a117d07584203726a779.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\"'>I followed him, watching as he changed out of his work clothes into jeans and a plain shirt. It wasn\u2019t the usual comfortable outfit he wore to relax at home.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cAre you going out?\u201d I asked, my chest tightening.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYeah, I\u2019ve got some errands,\u201d he said, avoiding eye contact.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat kind of errands?\u201d I pressed, feeling the tension rise in my voice.\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.thecelebritist.com\/zQvFPQj_aLptM0v8C53655T-x1Wy80AeJhxHkRQoalU\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vODEwYTIzMWM1MmU2MWIwZWQ1YWVlNmI0N2MwZDU0OGQ1YjlmYjA0MGRmOWMzYjk4ZmUxZDQyYmRjZDA1NGU4Ni5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/810a231c52e61b0ed5aee6b47c0d548d5b9fb040df9c3b98fe1d42bdcd054e86.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\"'>\u201cNothing big,\u201d he replied, heading toward the door.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhy won\u2019t you talk to me?\u201d I said louder, trailing after him. \u201cYou barely say anything these days! If you\u2019re cheating, just tell me!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Aaron stopped and turned to face me, his eyes wide. \u201cCheating? Veronica, no. How can you even think that?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat else am I supposed to think?\u201d I cried, my voice breaking.\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.thecelebritist.com\/sX-Pe1Q0jfCTpwu2zk9ZW8HdD1h52wASGuyIA9mQWOQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZjY2OTRiNTUzMGFiMjVhMWZiNGYxMDYzOGNmOWQwZDBhZDVjYzEyODc2NjQzMTNiMmMyMzhlNjQ4NTJiNzk1NS5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/f6694b5530ab25a1fb4f10638cf9d0d0ad5cc1287664313b2c238e64852b7955.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\"'>\u201cI\u2019m not cheating. I just\u2026 I\u2019m dealing with things. I didn\u2019t want to tell you because you don\u2019t need the stress,\u201d he said, resting a hand on my belly.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cAnd now? Do I look calm to you?\u201d I snapped, tears threatening to spill.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Aaron sighed. \u201cIt\u2019s fine. You\u2019re overthinking this,\u201d he said, leaning down to kiss my forehead before walking out the door.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I felt hollow like the air had been knocked out of me. My mind churned with questions I couldn\u2019t answer.\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.thecelebritist.com\/7ADeGxmWAc-rndE2y5PXWN0dbssBO2kS8g4Xn_BuQW4\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDM1Mzg2YzMwYmFkM2QxZGIwZGZjYmM2ODg0ZGNjZjI4MGZmZWU5OTVjOWU5YTNkMjdlZWU2ZmNhMjQyYzAxOC5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/d35386c30bad3d1db0dfcbc6884dccf280ffee995c9e9a3d27eee6fca242c018.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\"'>My heart ached as I stared at my phone, desperate for clarity. I texted my friend, Katherine, hoping she\u2019d help me sort through the mess in my head.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><strong class='\"ContentRenderer_bold__Fo6Iz\"'>@Me\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>Something\u2019s off with Aaron. He\u2019s distant and hiding something.\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><strong class='\"ContentRenderer_bold__Fo6Iz\"'>@Katherine\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>I read that a lot of men cheat when their wives are pregnant because they don\u2019t find them attractive anymore.\n\n<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.thecelebritist.com\/4p2DAvEMCQPymjRvbBS9eJG2oIId7HMSgTC0focmfRI\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjE2NDJjZjFjZTkyNjQwMGVkOGJjMGU2ZjYxZmU3MTQ0ZWI0Y2ViNDIxZjZmN2QxM2I1YjRiNTExNzFlNjdjYy5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/21642cf1ce926400ed8bc0e6f61fe7144eb4ceb421f6f7d13b5b4b51171e67cc.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\"'>I swallowed hard, rereading her words. My chest tightened as I typed my reply.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><strong class='\"ContentRenderer_bold__Fo6Iz\"'>@Me\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>Do you think that\u2019s possible?\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><strong class='\"ContentRenderer_bold__Fo6Iz\"'>@Katherine\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>You should check his stuff.\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Her suggestion made me hesitate, but doubt gnawed at me. I turned off my phone and went to the bedroom.\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.thecelebritist.com\/rj5OmCRMj5CR9S0DYEQR9H6uU55j7wgQo39BeVXDTFs\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMTNmMGNlMTI1ZmFjNzhiOWI2NTk3MjYzOTNiOGQyODVhYjAyYTkyNGUwN2I5YTkxYzYwNzk5MjAzM2Y3YjMyZC5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/13f0ce125fac78b9b659726393b8d285ab02a924e07b9a91c607992033f7b32d.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<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Opening Aaron\u2019s closet felt like crossing a line, but my hands moved on their own.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Drawers, shelves\u2014I searched until I found a small gift box behind a stack of sweaters.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>My stomach dropped as I lifted the lid. I saw a lace lingerie, delicate and expensive-looking.\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.thecelebritist.com\/kcetE76tC9kB-FCK-8KtOQkfD_3XNTOGUxsZEjGHM_E\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZTQ3OTc0MDIzZTEzZTkxOTAzZDFlOGNlMTJjNTZkYmYyYTZlYzllMjNiZGNhNDlhZTE0ZTM2MmFlN2Q1MzU4My5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MjQwMCZoZWlnaHQ9MTYwMA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/e47974023e13e91903d1e8ce12c56dbf2a6ec9e23bdca49ae14e362ae7d53583.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"2400\"' height='\"1600\"'>\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\"'>My hands trembled. Aaron had never given me anything like this before. This wasn\u2019t mine.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I grabbed my phone, barely able to see through the tears welling up.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><strong class='\"ContentRenderer_bold__Fo6Iz\"'>@Me\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>Where are you???\n\n<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.thecelebritist.com\/30hxoChe4ZyKvQypKuBM6w2tPLMtq6QH5XihnK13eA8\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTUwOTgyMTEyNWMyZjdlOTQ0NmVmM2Q5ODI0YTUyMDA1ZmNiODhkOTE4Yzc0OTU4ODNhNmY2MjRjMTAyYjVkOC5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/a509821125c2f7e9446ef3d9824a52005fcb88d918c7495883a6f624c102b5d8.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 message stayed unread. I sank onto the bed, clutching the box, sobbing until exhaustion overtook me.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>When sleep came, it offered no comfort, only a restless haze of worry. My marriage felt like it was slipping away, and I didn\u2019t know how to stop it.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>When I woke up the next morning, the house felt eerily quiet. I glanced at Aaron\u2019s side of the bed. It looked untouched.\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.thecelebritist.com\/4dnoYvVCDV87ZR7LnDR5hVX9MwSMP30Nm0zbUnjXTKE\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMzY2YWYzZjljMDc5OGJhYWZiZTY5YWQyOTNhNDNjNzZmOWM0NWQ5YTUzM2Y3NDRjODVjMDA1OTQ0YzliMzA1Zi5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/366af3f9c0798baafbe69ad293a43c76f9c45d9a533f744c85c005944c9b305f.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<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Had he even come home? I couldn\u2019t remember hearing the door or his footsteps. A knot formed in my stomach as I made my way downstairs.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>In the kitchen, I stopped in my tracks. There was a plate of scrambled eggs and toast sitting neatly on the counter.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He had been here, after all. My eyes lingered on the food, but I felt no appetite. This wasn\u2019t an apology; it was avoidance. He thought breakfast would fix things.\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.thecelebritist.com\/vZ7vAnULcxSkVC3zUwl-9pD3I2dM3IOHZUcM19WjTYM\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOGRmMTZkYjZlYWUwY2I3N2U0MDU0YzIyYjA5NTc1ZmI3MWNkMWY0N2FmMjE5MWMxZDdjZTE2NjlmZjY4YjI5YS5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/8df16db6eae0cb77e4054c22b09575fb71cd1f47af2191c1d7ce1669ff68b29a.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\"'>I picked up the plate, ready to throw it away, but a mess in the trash bin caught my eye.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Among crumpled napkins and wrappers was a pile of shredded paper. Something about it looked deliberate. Curious, I set the plate down and pulled the scraps from the bin.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>At the table, I pieced them together slowly, my hands shaking. They were bills, though the details were incomplete.\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.thecelebritist.com\/XBuBmmnPUUcW9f3m0MS8RgNMFXTONKgHH75Hj3QrYVg\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMzY1ZmRjMzNlZTAxZDc1YzQ3ZmFhYmJiZDVlYmM3ZjdjMzZiNjhiOWExOGZjNjFiM2NjNDBiOWI5ZWUyMTRlMC5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/365fdc33ee01d75c47faabbbd5ebc7f7c36b68b9a18fc61b3cc40b9b9ee214e0.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\"'>No addresses, no logos\u2014just amounts and dates. My mind raced with questions.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I pushed the papers aside and sank into a chair. I\u2019d had enough of guessing. I needed to hear the truth\u2014from Aaron.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>So I sat and waited, watching the clock, determined to confront him the moment he walked through the door.\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.thecelebritist.com\/T66UBmIspNpu9IiAJSh0nS0IXI_lIG7RCKj6vIDp1g8\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZTAyNDk1ZTFjZTY3MDIyY2YwMzg0NmFhMGM1YWYyMDgxYTgzZWU2NjExYTFlNWViNTU0NTU1ZDBjMjNkYTAwZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MjQwMCZoZWlnaHQ9MTYwMA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/e02495e1ce67022cf03846aa0c5af2081a83ee6611a1e5eb554555d0c23da00d.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"2400\"' height='\"1600\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>When Aaron came home that evening, I was sitting in the kitchen. The bills I had pieced together were spread out on the table in front of me. My heart pounded as he walked in.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cCare to explain?\u201d I asked, keeping my voice steady.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Aaron stopped short when he saw the papers. \u201cDamn. I forgot to take out the trash,\u201d he said, his face tense.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThat\u2019s all you have to say?!\u201d My voice cracked with anger.\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.thecelebritist.com\/uyJYFeEp4iijiLSSZPp6ksj1H48qymm6VD4FWmxocss\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vN2IyYTJjMDdkM2IyMjdhMjc4Zjg2MDg5MDAyZWI5NGQ1N2YyYTExMjJiMjkxZTQ2YTNmMTJmOTFmNmVmZjU4Yy5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/7b2a2c07d3b227a278f86089002eb94d57f2a1122b291e46a3f12f91f6eff58c.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\"'>\u201cVeronica, I\u2014\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat? You avoid me, you keep disappearing, I find lingerie in your drawer, and now this?!\u201d I slammed my hand on the table, my frustration spilling out.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Aaron\u2019s shoulders sagged. \u201cThey\u2019re hospital bills,\u201d he said, barely above a whisper.\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.thecelebritist.com\/8qiil6tZUiNV8n93xt8OTqDzuAJvJ9YIbMmIckI3PWg\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZjU1NmEwNzAwMWU5MjY0MWM2ODE0MzY3NTAzNTE5OGZlMzEyNmYzN2NmN2I1NTgzZjY5YTBlNmJjYjVmYTEwNC5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/f556a07001e92641c68143675035198fe3126f37cf7b5583f69a0e6bcb5fa104.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\"'>\u201cHospital bills? For who?\u201d I asked, my confusion mixing with anger.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMy mom,\u201d he said, his voice soft.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cSara? She\u2019s sick? Why didn\u2019t you tell me?\u201d I stood, my heart sinking.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI didn\u2019t want to worry you. You\u2019ve got enough going on. And I know how things are between you and her. I thought you\u2019d be upset that I\u2019ve been spending money on her, especially with the baby coming,\u201d he said, not meeting my eyes.\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.thecelebritist.com\/MMLD0N0lP7RFE3NHjqXUjGWY3fdJLJirYy1AZK6tvlY\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjNkMmE1ZTJhOTY3OGRlMWMyYmEwMTA0MDA5MWJmYTQ0Njc1ZTgxM2FlZjEwOGQwNDczMWE1MTRlYWJkOTc0MS5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/23d2a5e2a9678de1c2ba01040091bfa44675e813aef108d04731a514eabd9741.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\"'>\u201cAaron, that\u2019s ridiculous! She\u2019s your mom. If she\u2019s sick, of course, I\u2019d want to support you\u2014and her,\u201d I said, my voice firm.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI didn\u2019t think of that,\u201d he admitted, looking defeated.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cAnd the lingerie?\u201d I asked, crossing my arms.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIt was supposed to be for you. You\u2019ve been feeling insecure, so I thought it might make you feel special,\u201d he said in a low voice.\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.thecelebritist.com\/Ut3oREE2ZXB-n1TmHcjhFFgHh8IJLAcxa2zAUDM8AZw\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjFmNDIzZTY1NDg0MGVjZDJjZGFlNDgwZDQ4OWYwYjhlZDQyMTZhMGRjZjkzMjI5ZGExZTk2Y2UyN2FlMGI4NC5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/21f423e654840ecd2cdae480d489f0b8ed4216a0dcf93229da1e96ce27ae0b84.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\"'>I sighed, my anger giving way to exhaustion. \u201cI\u2019m still upset. You hid all this from me. I\u2019m your wife, Aaron. It hurts that you didn\u2019t trust me.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI know. I\u2019m sorry,\u201d he said, sounding regretful.\n\n</p><div>\n<div>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI need some time to think,\u201d I said, sitting back down.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Aaron nodded and walked out quietly, and I heard the front door close. The house fell silent again.\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.thecelebritist.com\/rfs6KjjEWcUNoUUfieSLyYcgnGY-_PdIgvA3kWjHuHA\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTRkOWEyZWI3OTUwODk5ZGQyZTUzN2QwMmQ1YmUyNDQxMjQyNTk2NWU1ZjFlY2IzZDQ3MzlkNDA2YzgyNWE0Ny5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/a4d9a2eb7950899dd2e537d02d5be24412425965e5f1ecb3d4739d406c825a47.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\"'>Two hours later, I stood outside Sara\u2019s hospital room, clutching a box with her favorite cherry pie inside. My nerves felt raw, but I knocked softly. The door creaked as I stepped in.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Aaron was by her side, holding her hand. His face brightened when he saw me.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cVeronica?\u201d Sara said, her voice filled with surprise as she shifted to sit up.\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.thecelebritist.com\/Dg6jvE1OZ1g5_WvVxZSB2ToXXSUzpuEDPjo2aCzurlI\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMWYxZmI1MmVkZDdlODZhM2E2MjUyMzk5NTgxNjdkODc3ODA4MjFjMGJjZDFmNjdhYWNhNjcyNDk5ZjgwYjg5NS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9OTI4JmhlaWdodD0xMjMy.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/1f1fb52edd7e86a3a625239958167d87780821c0bcd1f67aaca672499f80b895.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only. source: midjourney width='\"928\"' height='\"1232\"'>\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\"'>\u201cNo, don\u2019t get up,\u201d I said quickly, stepping closer. \u201cI brought you some cherry pie. I remembered it\u2019s your favorite.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Sara\u2019s eyes softened. \u201cOh, thank you, Veronica. That\u2019s so thoughtful of you.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I hesitated before speaking. \u201cI\u2019m sorry I haven\u2019t visited sooner,\u201d I began, my voice wavering.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n</div></div></div></div></div></picture></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></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></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></i></p></div></strong></p></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></i></p></div></strong></p></div></i></p></div></strong></p></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></i></p></div></strong></p></div></i></p></div></strong></p></div></div></picture></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></picture></div></div></div></div></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></header>