It was easy for me to blend with the surroundings. I chose a secluded spot, where I had a clear view of the entrance, without being seen. The wait was agonizing, and the longer I sat there, the more I expected to see Mark.
I ordered a cocktail to calm my nerves. Then, Mark walked in, not alone, as I had desperately hoped, but with a woman draped across his arm. She was striking, dressed in designer gear from head to toe, the very definition of a Gucci mama.
My heart sank. I watched Mark and his woman head over to a table almost obscured by hanging plants, where Tom and his wife, Sasha, were seated. They both jumped up and hugged the happy couple.
The voicemail was clearly meant for Mark only. I watched them for a little longer — watching Mark gaze adoringly at her, and stroke the back of her neck with his fingers. Yet, amid a whirlwind of emotions, a cold resolve settled over me.
This was the moment for action, not tears. I called over a waiter, my voice calm but firm. “The most expensive champagne you have, for that table,” I instructed, pointing discreetly towards Mark.
The waiter, sensing the undercurrent of drama, complied with a nod and a small smile. As the champagne arrived at their table, the confusion and forced smiles on their faces were a small victory. Even above the music and chatter, I heard Mark’s laugh.I snapped a photo of them in their faux-celebration and within moments, shared it online, tagging Mark.
A few minutes passed, and I continued to sip on my cocktail, waiting. Mark’s reaction, once he saw the notification, was priceless. The color drained from his face as he frantically searched the room — still not finding me.
Desperate, he tried calling me. I watched my phone ring, detached, as his calls went unanswered. I called the waiter over one more time and requested a piece of paper and one more bottle of champagne.
To a memorable double date and our divorce, cheers! I wrote, signing off at the bottom. I left the restaurant feeling hurt and betrayed, my momentary bravery slipping away.
Mark came home that evening and packed his things, saying that he was going to Tom’s house. He apologized and said that he was just having fun. Apparently, he needed to let off some steam from work stress.
It’s been a week, and we haven’t spoken since. But I think it’s time for me to file the divorce papers.If you were in my shoes, what would you have done?
