Chapter 1 OLIVIA I hoped Nick would come home early today. He hadnt been around much since he started working with my best friend, Sandra. Things had been hectic at the office, but I still hoped today would be different, seeing how it was our fourth-year anniversary. I also had big news; I was finally pregnant, and we were about to have the family wed always dreamed of. I couldnt wait to see his reaction when I told him, and I didnt even want to think about my mother-in-lawshed be thrilled. Id call and tell her after telling Nick. I was sure theyd cut their trip short once they heard the news of my pregnancy. I hummed as I moved around the kitchen, cooking. I was happy, despite knowing things hadnt been the same between Nick and me lately. I hoped that after hearing the news of my pregnancy, he would become the man I fell in love with again. Just as I placed the last dish on the dining table, the front door opened. My heart leaped with excitement, and I rushed to greet him. Nick was taking off his jacket when I reached him, but he didnt look pleased to see me. I smiled and greeted him anyway. Good evening, my love, I said, then went to hug him as Sandra walked in, wearing a smile. Why was she there? Id told her it was my anniversary and that I wanted to spend the evening alone with Nick. Sandra, youre here? I forced a smile. She hugged me. Yes, friend. Nick and I still have a few work things to sort out, but I suggested we finish here. I would talk to Nick after dinner, once Sandra was gone. The foods already on the table. Ill just grab the juice, I said. A short while later, we were seated at the dining room table. I decided to make some small talk. Nick, how was your day? I hope things are calming down now at the office. He glanced at me. You chose to stay home and take care of the house. Why do you care about work now? It doesnt concern you anymore. Sᴇaʀᴄh thᴇ Fɪndηovᴇl.nᴇt website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. His words stung. He was my husband, and I thought I had the right to ask how his day was. I got you a gift, I said, standing to go and get it. I dont need anything, he said with derision. And why are you acting so desperate today? My heart sank. Had he forgotten our anniversary? Since when did he forget that, and since when did he talk to me like this? What had happened to my husband? He was becoming colder and more distant every day. I sat back down, feeling crushed. Come on, Nick. Olivia just misses you. She didnt mean to annoy you, Sandra chimed in. What made her think I was annoying him? Was it because she was closer to him now than I was? Because they worked together constantly, forming a bond? That bond shouldnt interfere with my marriage. Nick should still love me and treat me well. But that wasnt the case anymore. I watched them talk as if I wasnt there. Nick smiled more at her, a gentleness in his demeanor that I hadnt seen in a long time. My heart ached. That affection and gentleness was supposed to be for me. At the end of dinner, I said, Ill clear the table. Are you both done? Nick didnt even look at me. He just pushed his plate toward me, while remaining focused on Sandra. My hand went to my stomach, caressing it. Oh, baby, your dads not ready to hear about you yet. But Ill tell him. I promise, and hell be so happy youre finally here. Before I left the room, Sandra said, Oh, did you want me to help you clear the table? I didnt answer, just picked up the plates and went to the kitchen. Once I placed them in the sink, I gripped the edge, taking deep breaths, trying to calm myself and hold back my tears. Sandra followed me. How does it feel, huh? she asked, her tone smug. I turned to face her, confused. What are you talking about? She smirked, stepping closer to me. Knowing that your husband doesnt care about you anymore. Knowing that youre losing him… to me. Her words sent a wave of anger through me. Sandra, you Aaah, Olivia! What are you doing? she screamed, throwing herself onto the ground. I stood there, frozen, staring at her. What was I doing? What was she doing? That was the question. Nick came rushing in, immediately going to her side as she started crying. He glared at me. What the hell did you do? I… I didnt do anything! I stammered, completely perplexed. What was happening? This was obviously some kind of act on Sandras part. Nick… oh, Nick… theres blood. Im losing my baby! Sandra sobbed. Baby? What baby? Nick picked her up and rushed out with her in his arms. I followed them, but he turned to me, his face filled with enough hatred that I stopped in my tracks. Isnt what youve done to me enough? Now you go after her too? You better pray she doesnt lose her baby, or Ill make you pay for everything youve done!