Something about my ex-husband’s engagement bothered me, even though he was eager to start a new chapter in his life. An ordinary conversation at work evolved into an unavoidable epiphany. I had to tell the truth to him since he wouldn’t believe me.
Even though my profession as a restaurant administrator did not require a lot of sitting, I was seated at work.
On the counter, my phone began to vibrate. I glanced at Aaron on the screen. My former spouse.
A picture was loaded. Our son David had a big plush animal in his hand and was beaming from ear to ear.
I felt a surge of warmth. I was happy to see Aaron and David enjoying themselves.
Claire arched an eyebrow. “Is he wealthy or what?”
This image is only illustrative.
Lindsey grinned. “He has money, but he’s not a millionaire. At least enough to purchase this.
I scowled. For more than a year, Lindsey had been seeing Leo, a member of our kitchen crew. “Are you and Leo not together?” I inquired.
Lindsey continued to admire the ring and answered, “I am.”
I gazed at her. “When did Leo become wealthy?”
At last, Lindsey turned to face me. “Leo isn’t. However, my fiancé is. Actually, Leo came up with that notion.
I blinked. “What?”
“It was an easy plan,” Lindsey added. “Find a wealthy man, get married to him, get a divorce a few months later, and keep the money.” After that, Leo and I lead fulfilling lives. She rotated her finger’s ring. “I’m halfway there.”
My stomach turned over. “Don’t you find that to be… cruel?”
Lindsey gave a shrug. “No, because I don’t love my fiancé.”
I answered, “But he might love you.” “Did he not propose?”
I was waved away by Lindsey. That is his issue. He was swayed by my youthful age.
Unable to believe what I was hearing, I gazed at her.
When I arrived home that night, Aaron and David were already at the door. My son’s face lit up with joy as he bounced inside.
“Mom! The largest roller coaster was the one we rode! “I wasn’t even afraid!” he exclaimed, gasping for air.
I ruffled his hair and grinned. “That sounds fantastic.”
“Is everything all right?” I inquired.
This image is only illustrative.
He said, “We need to talk.” “In private.”
I bent over. “You’re terrifying me, Aaron. Has something occurred?
He gave a quick breath. “No, nothing negative. It’s really serious. but in a positive manner.
I scowled. “Serious in a positive sense? What are you saying?
Aaron paused. Then he said, “I’m getting married again,” in a single sentence.
I blinked. “What? That’s fantastic! I tried to reassure him with a grin. “I don’t understand your concern.”
Aaron gave a shrug. “I’m not sure. Perhaps I assumed you would be upset.
“Angry? I’m really glad for you, Aaron. You are deserving of happiness.
His face relaxed with relief. He gave a nod. “Thank you. Later, I’ll inform David. First, I wanted you to know.
“Obviously. He’ll be pleased for you too, I’m sure,” I remarked.
Aaron grinned, feeling more at ease.
“So, who is she?” I inquired. Will you display an image for me? How did the two of you meet?
Aaron laughed. “I anticipated your question.”
“That’s Lindsey,” I said in a flat voice. “One of my servers.”
Aaron stirred uneasily. Indeed. I was concerned about your response because of this.
My thoughts were racing when I glanced again at the photo. “How even did this occur?”
This image is only illustrative.
When I picked David up from the restaurant, I got to know her. She was on a dating app when I later saw her. We began conversing. and now we are.
I took a deep breath. I squeezed my hands beneath the table. I had to tell someone about this.
I gently said, “Aaron, I have something to tell you.” “It’s not good either.”
Aaron stiffened his face. “I already know if this has to do with the age gap. Eleven years. We’re not bothered by it.
I gave a headshake. “That isn’t it. Lindsey brought up her fiancé just today. I was unaware that she was referring to you.
He tightened his jaw. “Because you are feeling envious!”
I let out a gasp. “Are you jealous? I’m attempting to keep you safe!
“All right. Aaron yelled, “I found someone younger who genuinely loves me, and you just can’t stand that.”
“She’s dating someone! Our kitchen is where he works! I yelled.
“You’re telling lies!” Anger was red in his face. “It’s unbelievable how low you’ve fallen.”
“That’s the reality!”
“This discussion is over.” He slammed the front door behind him and rushed out.
I kept an eye out for Leo the following day.
I stepped closer and said, “Hey, Leo.” “You and Lindsey are a fantastic duo. Why don’t we have a romantic meal here after closure, I thought? She would adore it.
Leo’s expression brightened. “Do you really believe that?”
“Yes,” I said. “She even said that she had recently wanted something special like that.”
Whoa, I didn’t know. That sounds ideal.
This image is only illustrative.
I gave a nod. You might bring some flowers and arrange a lovely table. She would adore the work.
Leo smiled. Melanie, that’s a fantastic concept. I appreciate you bringing it up. Can I do that this evening?
I grinned. “Obviously.”
I then messaged Aaron about it.
@Me
Come to the restaurant after 10 p.m. if you want the truth, even though I know you believe I’m lying.
The cameras sprung into action. I found the perfect viewpoint, one that showed the table Leo had prepared.
Amidst the somber lights, candles flickered. In the middle was a small vase filled with flowers. It looked romantic. Too sentimental.
I watched Lindsey and Leo sit together. They laughed, spoke, and ate. Leo’s eyes were beaming with love.
I saw activity on the outside camera.
Leo parted his lips, but nothing came out. Lindsey’s eyes darted about, searching for a way out.
Aaron’s voice was booming. Even though I couldn’t hear him, I could tell he was upset. First he gestured to Lindsey, then to Leo.
Subsequently, Lindsey abruptly removed her engagement ring and hurled it towards Aaron.
It landed on the table with a clatter. Aaron’s face went white as he took it up. He turned and stormed away without saying another word.
This image is only illustrative.
Once more, I changed the camera. Aaron remained motionless outside, his shoulders trembling.
He lowered his head into his palm. I could see he was crying even via a screen.
“You were correct,” he remarked in a raspy voice.
I said, “Just so you know, I’m not satisfied with this.” “I didn’t want to be incorrect.”
Aaron’s shoulders were heavy as he nodded. “I apologize for having doubts about you.” He inhaled nervously. “You deserve my trust.”
He moved forward and embraced me tightly. “I’m grateful.”
