"Did your parents have a crystal ball when they named you Florence? So fitting. So soft."
"Since I've been with you, I've barely touched her. Told her I had a low drive. The only time was when I needed to trick her into getting the marriage certificate so I could transfer the property to your name."
"Her? Pitiful? I already gave her the title of Mrs. Stephens. The one I owe now is you."
"You're too sweet. Your husband would give you his life if you asked."
One filthy, careless line after another, each one laced with contempt, poured into my ears.
I stood frozen in the doorway, every nerve in my body short-circuiting.
Six months ago, Noel had handed me a medical report diagnosing him with low libido. His face was full of guilt.
"Honey, our intimate life might not be possible anymore. Please don't leave me, okay?"
I felt sorry for him. I tried everything I could think of to make it work. None of it made a difference.
Then two months ago, he came home drunk one night and it happened. I thought my efforts had finally paid off. Turns out it was just a necessary transaction, the price of putting a property in his mistress's name.
That was when the baby was conceived.