Lib Novel Page 157
I’ve never seen anyone sadder than her while talking about world travel.
“If you need time, take it, Daisy. We don’t have to decide anything right now.” I don’t even bother hiding the pathetic hope behind my voice, but she simply shakes her head in response.
“All I need is a divorce, Charles. And as soon as possible.” She leaves my office while I’m fixed in place.
All my lifelong fears have come true.
I’ve never been enough to make anyone happy. Why did I think Daisy would be an exception?
34
YOU HANDLE YOUR BABY AND I’LL HANDLE MINE
DAISY
I slip into the back seat of the car, and the dam of tears I’ve been holding finally bursts free.
Every moment since I walked out of Charles’ office after signing those marriage papers rushes back to me. In these months, my life changed in such a way that I’ll never be the same person I was before.
“We’ve arrived at the hospital, Daisy.” Dave’s voice breaks through the speakers before he opens the door. “Is everything alright?” His movements stall as he finds me sniffling.
“Yes, everything’s fine.” I look at the tissues strewn around on the leather seat beside me. “I…I just got a text from Dad and got a bit emotional. He’s waiting for me in the waiting room.”
What have you become, Daisy?
A wife who lies and a daughter who profits off her father’s illness.
“I’ll walk with you to reception.” Dave begins to turn away, but I grasp his wrist, halting his steps.
“Sorry, but my dad gets anxious around too many people.”
Understanding flashes in Dave’s eyes, mingled with concern, before he says, “Mr. Hawthorne asked me to ensure you and your dad see the doctor immediately, Daisy. He won’t be pleased otherwise.”
My feet falter. Did Charles call Dave before or after I asked for a divorce?
As if nature wants me to have an answer to my question, Dave’s phone rings.
“It’s Charles, isn’t it?” I ask as he retrieves it from his pocket.
The bodyguard nods.
“May I speak with him, please?” I extend my hand, and without hesitation, Dave places the phone on my waiting palm.
“Has Daisy met with the doctor yet?” Charles’ no-nonsense business tone hits me like a shock. It’s been months since I heard him speak this way. How much has changed between us?
“Charles, it’s me,” I respond slowly.
“Daisy?” There’s the sound of something crashing in the background before he curses softly. “Fuck. Sorry, I just knocked over a paperweight onto my coffee mug. Is everything okay?”
“I don’t want Dave to accompany me to the hospital.”
There’s a tense silence for a few heartbeats before Charles clears his throat. “I didn’t mean to intrude—”
“No! That’s not what I meant.” My throat clogs with emotion. How did we become almost strangers in such a short time? “Dad gets anxious in hospitals, especially when there are a lot of people.” My tongue feels like lead as I recite the lie.
“Dammit.” I can imagine Charles tugging on his hair. “Sorry, Daisy. I didn’t consider that.” His voice tightens the knot of guilt around my throat some more, making it hard to swallow. “Of course. You go ahead. Dave will wait for you in the parking lot.”
“Thank you.”