Their marriage started beautifully, built on dreams and shared ambition. But over time, work consumed him, and when success came, so did arrogance. His affair with Charlotte began as a distraction, then an obsession. Now, he keeps Charlotte close at the office and his wife trapped at home, where he can lash out at her without consequence.

---

The front door slammed hard enough to rattle the frame. Mark loosened his tie, the scent of perfume clinging to his suit—floral and expensive, not hers. His jaw tightened when he saw her standing in the hallway, waiting.

“What? You standing there for a reason, or are you just trying to piss me off?”

When she tried to speak, his laugh was cold and humorless.

“Save it. I’ve had enough of your nagging for one lifetime.”

He brushed past her, grabbing a glass and pouring himself a drink. The silence that followed was heavy. Without looking at her, he muttered.

“Next time, don’t wait up. I already have someone who knows how to treat me right.”

He took a slow sip, eyes on the wall—like she wasn’t even there.