She didn't respond. When our names were called, we stood before the judge. The questions were straightforward. We confirmed that we understood the agreement. We confirmed that neither of us wanted to continue the marriage.
Then the judge signed the final order. It was over. 10 years of marriage ended in less than 15 minutes. Outside the courthouse, Wanda stood beside me. So that's it.
Yes. She looked at me. I thought you'd change your mind. I didn't. I kept hoping you would.
I know. She looked toward the street. Jack isn't around anymore. I didn't respond. She continued.
He stopped talking to me after everything happened. That's between you and him. I know. She looked back at me. I thought he was what I wanted.
And now I was wrong. I nodded. I'm sorry. She seemed surprised. You're sorry?
Yes. Why? Because you destroyed your marriage for something you thought would make you happy. Her eyes filled with tears. I know.
We stood there quietly. Then she asked, "Do you ever think about giving us another chance?" "No," she looked down. "Not even once?" "No."
"Why?" I took a breath. "Because I can't trust you. I could earn it back." "Maybe," she looked at me.
"Then why won't you let me? Because I don't want to spend years wondering if you'll betray me again. She nodded slowly. I understand. I believed her.
For once, she wasn't arguing. She was accepting the consequences. She wiped her eyes. I loved you. I know.
I still do. I looked at her. I loved you, too. Her voice cracked. Past tense.
Yes. She nodded. Then she gave me a small sad smile. I guess I have to accept that. You do.
She walked toward her car. Before getting inside, she turned around. Billy, what? Was there anything I could have done to stop this? I didn't hesitate.
You could have told me the truth. She looked down. You could have left me before cheating. I know. That's all.
She nodded. Then she got into her car. I watched her drive away. That was the last time I saw Wanda for several months. I moved into a small house across town after the sale of our old one.
I bought new furniture. I changed my routine. I started going to the gym again and spent more time with friends I'd neglected during the marriage. I didn't date immediately. I didn't want to.