Chapter 22: The Trap

A week later, I returned to that filthy house. Even though, after Marcus left, Natalie had cleaned the place until it was spotless, I still felt the house was dirty, reeking.

The lemony scent of cleaning spray couldn’t mask the betrayal. I tossed my bag on the floor, unable to breathe. The air felt heavy, tainted. I wandered from room to room, searching for something—anything—left untouched by their affair. There was nothing.

I couldn’t stay another second. I packed my things and left.

I grabbed a duffel, stuffed it with whatever I could carry, and slammed the front door behind me. My footsteps echoed on the porch, the cold night air biting my cheeks as I stumbled to my car.

Then, carrying some random specialty products I bought at a local store, I arranged to meet Marcus.

I picked up a six-pack of craft beer, some smoked cheese, and a box of fancy chocolates—typical gifts, nothing out of the ordinary. My hands shook as I wrapped them in a brown paper bag, rehearsing the conversation in my mind.