A Flight to Freedom

The moment Jacob saw what was happening, he rushed over and wrapped his arms around Wendy tightly. She sobbed uncontrollably while Jacob murmured soft reassurances, trying to calm her down.

Paul was completely fed up. "Have you two no shame? This is in public—people are watching!

"Mrs. Carter, please go home and get some rest. I promise I'll give you a proper explanation for all of this."

I gave a small nod, turned, and walked away.

Jacob started after me, but Wendy clung to him with all her might, refusing to let go.

I had no desire to deal with either of them anymore. I left without a word, booked a flight, and went home.

When I came back, Jacob was storming down the street. He was red-faced with frustration, while Wendy trailed behind like a scolded child.

I didn't know what had happened after I left, and frankly, I didn't care. I slipped the plane ticket into my pocket, ignored the sight of them entirely, and walked into the house.

Not long after, they appeared at my door, dragging a chaotic pile of bags and boxes into the hallway.

Wendy's face was pale and twisted with anger.

Jacob was the first to speak. "Alicia, I brought back all your things. Let's not get divorced, alright?"

Before I could answer, Wendy snapped, "Alicia, everything's been returned! I don't want a single thing now! Is that enough for you now?"

Then she turned on Jacob. "You don't need to care if Oliver and I starve to death. Let us freeze in the wind for all I care!"

I glanced at the mess they'd brought back—cheap household junk, and even the eggs Jacob had bought her just two days ago.

I clapped my hands and laughed. "Wendy, for the past five years, Jacob's been supporting your son. He paid for everything you eat and use.

"Your husband's parents died young, and all the compensation money went straight into your hands. I'd bet you've got a decent savings tucked away. Starve to death? Please, don't be so dramatic."

News of my confrontation at their workplace had already spread through the neighborhood. The hallway was packed with people eager to watch the spectacle—it was more lively than festivals.

Jacob's face turned scarlet. "Wendy! I've done so much for you all these years. Can't you just stop? For the sake of what we used to have? Even if you're not ashamed, I am!"

Elizabeth stepped in, trying to ease the tension. "Alicia, this kind of scene doesn't help anyone. No matter what, life has to go on."

I knew she meant well. People of her generation believed that family matters should never be aired in public.

But I had nothing to be ashamed of. I'd done everything right. As for Jacob and Wendy, they were about to become irrelevant.

I took Elizabeth's hand. "Elizabeth, I've already made up my mind. I'm getting a divorce. In five days, I'll be flying overseas for further studies. I've bought the ticket."

I gestured toward the pile in the hallway. "If there's anything here your grandson could use, please take it. I'll sell the rest to the scrap collector."

Elizabeth glanced between Jacob and Wendy, clearly uneasy.

I gently pulled her toward a few items. "This little car should be perfect for your grandson. And these are brand new clothes—they should be just about his size.

"Oh, and take the eggs too—no point letting them go to waste."

She thanked me over and over, then leaned in and whispered, "But Alicia, was what you said real? Are you really going abroad? Doesn't that just hand them the win?"

I nodded. "I am, Elizabeth. I’m still young, and I won't let petty love affairs hold me back.

"Jacob didn't know how to treasure what he had. But building a brighter future for our country—that's worth everything."

Elizabeth gave a silent nod of support. As she passed Jacob, she shook her head and muttered under her breath, "You had such a good wife. How could you throw that away?"

Under the weight of a dozen watching eyes, Jacob didn't even dare to say a word.