Wedcuffed

Chapter 45

Adrian's POV

I closed the door to Sarah's room quietly, the weight of our conversation lingering in my mind. I walked down the hallway, and my steps echoed on the wooden floor. The sun had set, and the house was bathed in a warm, golden glow from the lamps. As I headed to the front door, I paused by where my parents sat, looking pensive.

"Adrian," my mother called softly, beckoning me over. "How did it go?"

I took a deep breath, rubbing the back of my neck. "It was tough, but we're moving in the right direction. Sarah agreed to try joint custody."

My father nodded, his expression is stern but supportive. "That's good to hear. You've got a lot to prove now. You messed up badly in your marriage. I hope you are a good father. I hope I can trust you in that part."

"Thanks, Dad," I replied, feeling a pang of gratitude. "I know I've messed up, but I won't let you down. I won't let Sarah and our child down."

As I made my way to my car, the cool night air provided a brief moment of clarity. The stars above seemed brighter, offering a glimmer of hope. I got into my car and drove home, my mind racing with thoughts of the future and the responsibilities I had taken on.

I reached my apartment and sat at the kitchen table, a cup of coffee steaming in front of me. I took a sip, savoring the bitter warmth. My mind wandered to the events of the day, replaying the conversation with Sarah and Alessandro. I couldn't help but feel a mix of relief and apprehension. Admitting my mistakes and committing to change was just the first step; now I had to follow through.

My phone buzzed with a notification. It was a message from my therapist, reminding me of our next session. I quickly replied, confirming the appointment. Therapy had become a cornerstone of my journey to redemption, helping me understand the root of my issues and providing strategies to overcome them.

The next morning, I woke early, determined to stick to my new routine. I went for a run, the rhythmic pounding of my feet on the pavement clearing my mind. I had read somewhere that physical exercise was not just good for the body but also the mind. I found that it gave me a sense of control, something I desperately needed right now.

I couldn't deny the fact that the proximity of Alessandro and Sarah annoyed me. I was jealous. Knowing that Sarah, my wife, wanted to divorce me because of my mistreatment was eating me inside.

But now wasn't the time to dwell on jealousy. It was time to act.

I still hope somewhere that I still stand a chance to bring Sarah back.

 After my run, I showered and prepared for the day. I needed to be strong, for myself and my family. I called my lawyer to discuss the next steps in the custody arrangement and then made a list of things I could do to improve my relationship with Sarah and our child.

In the afternoon, I visited a bookstore and picked up a few books on parenting and relationships. As I stood in line to pay, I noticed a father with his young daughter, both laughing at something on his phone. A pang of longing hit me, but it was quickly replaced by determination. I wanted that with my child.

Back at my apartment, I spent the evening reading, taking notes, and planning. I messaged Sarah, suggesting a few activities that the mother should do for a healthy baby delivery. To my surprise, she replied positively. It was a small step, but it was progress.

A flashback of all those past events hit me: marrying Sarah for the company's sake, not breaking up with Jessica, and continuing my relationship with her. 

I cheated on Sarah but accused her of infidelity instead. I trusted Jessica over Sarah and, driven by rage and insecurities, I violated her. She was my wife, yet I mistreated her and shattered her dignity.