The next evening, everything was set. Candles flickered on the dining table, soft music played, and I wore my best dress—the one I hadn’t touched in years. I even put on makeup, something Mark hadn’t seen me do in a long time.
At exactly seven, Emma knocked. I opened the door with a warm, welcoming smile. “Come in, Emma! I made dinner.”
She blinked in surprise. “Oh… wow. I thought we were just talking about decor?”
“Oh, we will,” I said cheerfully, leading her inside. “But first, we eat.”
She stepped in, looking around. Mark was already at the table, his fork hovering mid-air, eyes wide as he took in the scene. I had texted him earlier, saying I made a special dinner just for him. He had no idea Emma would be joining us.
“Emma?” he choked out.
“Oh, didn’t I mention?” I said sweetly, placing a glass of wine in front of her. “I invited Emma over to discuss some important matters about our house. Since she knows all about what happens here, I figured she’d have some great insight.”
Emma’s face turned pale. She stole a glance at Mark, who looked like he was about to faint.
I clinked my wine glass. “Cheers, to honesty and transparency in all relationships.”
Mark coughed. “Honey, what’s—”
I cut him off. “I know, Mark.” My voice was calm, almost too calm. “I heard you on the porch. Every word. Every kiss. Every insult you threw my way.”
Emma’s hand trembled as she set down her glass. “I—”
“Oh, don’t worry,” I continued, still smiling. “I didn’t make a scene. I didn’t cry. I didn’t tell anyone. Instead, I planned this lovely little gathering so we could all be honest with each other.”
Mark swallowed hard. “Look, it’s not what you think—”
“Oh, it exactly what I think,” I said, standing up. “And since you think I don’t look like a woman anymore, Mark, let me make this simple: You’re free. Both of you are. Congratulations.”
I pulled an envelope from my purse and tossed it onto the table. Inside were divorce papers, already signed.
Emma let out a shaky breath. “I— I had no idea you’d…”
“You had no idea I’d find out? Yeah. Cheaters always think they’re clever.” I turned to Mark, my heart pounding but my voice steady. “Pack your things tonight. I want you out by morning.”
Mark sat there, speechless, while Emma fidgeted in her seat.
I grabbed my glass and took a long sip. “Oh, and Emma?”
She looked up nervously.
“Be careful. If he could do it to me, he’ll do it to you.”
With that, I walked away, leaving them both in stunned silence.