Chapter 10: Freedom

Emily never dared provoke me again. After all, when I lose control, I’m truly wild.

She glared at me resentfully.

"Now that Jay has divorced you, do you still dare to be so arrogant?"

I shot back, "That’s none of your business."

Then I turned and left.

Outside, the breeze felt cool on my skin, the city alive with afternoon noise. After I got home, I started packing. Even though I wanted this house, I didn’t plan to stay long. Looking back on the years of mutual torment between me and Jason, I felt only alienation.

I quickly listed the house for sale and started buying plane tickets. After all, Jason gave me so much money—I should spend it well.

I decided to travel for a while and come back when it was time to finalize the divorce.

The day before I left, I received a new message:

[Hello Melissa, I’m the YouTuber Time Capsule. Your street interview video will be posted at 7 p.m. on Sunday. Just confirming one last time—are you really okay with it?]

I wasn’t surprised to see this message.

You might not believe it, but the day after I saw Jason and Emily’s video, I was wandering the streets aimlessly and happened to be interviewed by the same YouTuber, asked the same question.

At the time, I found it ridiculous. But fate really is unpredictable.

I didn’t refuse the interview, and when I answered, I couldn’t help but wonder: if Jason saw my video, what would he feel?

[No problem, go ahead.]

I replied.

At the same time, I finished packing my last item and left—free at last.

I stepped outside with my suitcase, taking a deep breath. The city noise faded behind me. For the first time in years, the world felt wide open. I didn’t know where I was headed, but for once, that felt good.