Happy Birthday, He Cheated

When I got home, I started sorting—what to keep, what to ditch.

Once I'd packed, I grabbed the old photo album I used to cling to and cracked it open.

Eleven years of me and Derrick.

Back then, he was head over heels for me.

There was a time a car came flying at us—he didn't even flinch. Just shoved me out of the way and took the hit.

Got thrown clear across the street.

He was in a coma for a week.

When he finally woke up, I cried harder than anyone. Told him I'd never leave, no matter what.

But feelings shift. Fast.

And cheating? That's a line you don't come back from.

I tore up every photo, one by one, and chucked them in the trash.

"What are you doing?!"

I hadn't even heard Derrick walk in.

He looked at the shredded photos, eyes glassy. "Why'd you tear them up? Are you mad?"

I wasn't ready to let him know I knew, so I played it cool. "Made a new album. Just ditching the old one before it turns yellow."

That settled him. He hugged me. "If you're happy, I'm happy."

Once I locked in plans with Zara, I booked my flight.

Three days.

Spent the next two erasing him from my life.

The rings. Every photo. Old love notes.

Gone.

Lucky for me, he was too busy playing house with Sabrina to notice the place getting emptier by the hour.

***

The day I left, Derrick showed up.

I was just about to head out with my suitcase when he stopped me. "Audrey, where are you going? Why didn't you tell me?"

I set the bag down, smooth as ever. "Was just about to. There's a rare case at the hospital—I need to do surgery on-site. Chill, I'm not running away."

He let out a breath but still stepped in closer. "Let me come with you. You've been so distant these past two days... what if you don't love me anymore?"

"You're overthinking. How could I not love you?" I said, light and easy.

Then I pulled a document from my bag, covering the title just right.

"Hey, babe. Sign this for me—it's a surprise I planned for you."

I handed it over, my tone full of fake excitement.

Did the same thing years ago when I "gifted" him a star. He'd signed without even looking.

Maybe he remembered, because his face softened. Smile kicked in as he signed without blinking.

"What's the surprise this time? Can I see it?"

Before he could flip it open, his phone buzzed.

He checked the screen. "One sec. Gotta take this."

He stepped out to the balcony.

I didn't move. Just watched.

I'd already seen the caller ID.

Sabrina.

And he looked thrilled—grinning like an idiot.

I just stood there, staring.

Hadn't seen that look on Derrick's face in ages...

The call ran five, maybe six minutes. When he came back in, he said, "Audrey, be careful on your trip, okay? Something came up at work—I need to head out."

Didn't wait for a reply. Just walked out.

I didn't hesitate either. Rolled my suitcase right out the door.

Right before boarding, I got a message from Sabrina—a sonogram.

[I'm pregnant with Mr. Stratton's child. Can you let us be happy?]

I didn't answer.

Just forwarded it to Derrick with a note:

[Your chick sent this to me herself. Don't you think you should deal with it?]

[Oh, and since you already signed the divorce papers, once everything's processed, go pick up the divorce decree.]

Then I chucked my phone in the trash.