Not satisfaction. Not even sadness. Just emptiness where his love for her used to be.
New beginnings. Three months later, life had settled into a new rhythm for Desmond. Monica was in prison.
Elijah was also serving time, he got seven years for his role in the conspiracy. The mechanic Tony Miller received three years. All three of them were paying for their crimes.
Desmond’s company was thriving again. With Monica’s shares returned to him, he had full control. His business partners respected him even more now, impressed by how he had handled the situation.
The mansion was different now. Desmond had redecorated everything. New furniture.
New paint. New curtains. He wanted to erase every trace of Monica from his home.
The master bedroom where she had betrayed him was now a home office. He slept in a different room entirely. On a sunny Saturday morning, Desmond sat in his garden drinking coffee.
The garden had always been his favorite place. Peaceful and quiet, with flowers everywhere and birds singing in the trees. Grace came to visit bringing fresh pastries from the bakery downtown.
You look better, she said sitting beside him. Healthier. The circles under your eyes are almost gone.
I feel better, Desmond admitted. For the first time in months I actually feel like myself again. Have you thought about dating? Grace asked carefully.
I know it’s too soon but eventually. Eventually maybe, Desmond interrupted gently. But not now.
I need to learn to trust again first. And that’s going to take time. Grace nodded.
I understand. What about the mansion? Are you going to keep living here? There are a lot of memories in this place. Desmond looked back at the huge house behind them.
You know I’ve been thinking about that. This house was built for a family. But I’m just one person now.
Maybe it’s time for a change. You’re thinking of selling it? Maybe. Or maybe I’ll turn it into something useful.
A community center. A school. Something that helps people.
That would be a good way to turn something painful into something positive. Grace smiled. That’s a beautiful idea Desmond.
Monica tried to take everything from you but instead you’re thinking about giving back. That shows who you really are. They sat in comfortable silence for a while, enjoying the morning sun and the peaceful garden.
Can I ask you something? Grace finally said. Of course. Was it worth it? Faking your death, watching Monica for 40 days, exposing her in front of everyone? Was it worth all the pain? Desmond thought about the question seriously.
Yes, he said after a moment. It was worth it. If I hadn’t done it, I would have spent the rest of my life wondering.
Was she really trying to hurt me? Was the affair real? Did she ever love me? Now I know the truth. And the truth as painful as it was set me free. You’re a strong man Desmond.
I didn’t feel strong. Most days I felt broken. But I survived.
And now I’m healing. His phone buzzed with a message. It was from Dr. Paul…
