Tragedy of Love

A Surprise at Home

The sunlight streamed through the hotel curtains, casting a warm glow over the room. I blinked awake, but before I could fully process my surroundings, an overwhelming wave of nausea hit me. My stomach twisted painfully, and I barely had time to stumble out of bed before I bolted to the bathroom.

I barely made it to the toilet before I was heaving, my body wracked with dry sobs. It felt like the contents of my stomach were trying to escape in a violent rush. When it was finally over, I slumped against the cool tiles, taking deep breaths to calm myself. I had no idea what had caused this sudden wave of sickness. Stress? The coffee from last night? I brushed it aside for now.

Rinsing my mouth in the sink, I tried to ignore the reflection staring back at me. My hair was a mess, and my eyes were puffy. I needed to freshen up. A hot shower would do wonders. After I stepped out, I felt a little more like myself, the steam wrapping around me like a comforting blanket.

Once I was dressed, I picked up the hotel phone and dialed room service. I ordered pancakes, eggs, and coffee, my stomach rumbling at the thought of food, even if I had just been sick. I had a few hours before my flight, and I intended to make the most of my time.

As I waited for my order, my phone rang. I glanced at the screen and saw Chrissy's name pop up. Confused, I answered. "Hey, Chrissy. What's up?"

"Denise, what did you do?" she asked, her voice a mixture of concern and urgency.

I frowned. "What are you talking about?"

"Preston," she said, her tone tight with anxiety. "He's been angrier than usual. Last night, he screamed your name and tore up some papers."

My heart sank. The divorce papers. I hadn't even thought about what he'd do once he received them. "Those papers were about the divorce," I said slowly, feeling a mix of relief and dread.

There was a pause on the line. "You're serious?"

"Yes. It was time for us to end things."

"I thought it would take longer," Chrissy said, sounding shocked. "He's been so angry... I didn't expect it to happen this fast."

"It is what it is, Chrissy," I replied, my voice firmer than I felt. I didn't want to dwell on the past or Preston's anger. "We both need to move on."

"Yeah, well... I guess that's true."

As the call ended, I felt a strange mix of emotions—sadness, relief, and uncertainty about the future. I took a deep breath, trying to steady my racing thoughts. Today was a turning point, and I had to keep reminding myself that I was moving toward something better, even if it felt daunting.

Moments later, there was a knock on the door, breaking me from my thoughts. I opened it to find a tray of breakfast waiting for me. I managed a small smile as I set the tray on the table. At least I could enjoy this meal, one small comfort amid the chaos.

After finishing my breakfast, the pancakes surprisingly comforting, I realized it was time to move. I grabbed my bag and headed to the lobby, my mind still swirling from the phone call with Chrissy. It felt like a weight had been lifted, but uncertainty loomed ahead.

Once I reached the rental car, I took a moment to collect myself. Driving to the airport, I was met with the familiar sights of the city, but everything felt different now—like I was seeing it through a new lens.

I returned the rental car and made my way to the terminal. The airport was bustling with travelers, but I felt oddly disconnected from it all, like I was in my own bubble. I navigated through security with ease, though my mind raced with the possibilities that lay ahead.