I wandered and found myself by the river again. I had brought some wine and arranged for my mother-in-law to pick Ava up. Then, I settled by the river to pour myself a drink.

I realized the company had become an empty shell, its sole purpose to fill the Murphys’ wallet. Meanwhile, I was empty-handed. No wonder Melanie could taunt me so confidently. Although I married into the family, I wasn’t part of their world.

Even now, Melanie and Matthew didn’t spare my meager possessions. They would invade my space and commit vile acts on my bed whenever I was away. I thought I was strong-willed at the Murphys’ residence last night.

However, my repayment was a car for Melanie. When I asked him to send my parents some money, he lashed out at Erica. The more I thought about it, the more my heart ached. It was like a stabbing pain suffocating my chest.

My phone kept ringing, and I didn't know what I said when I answered. I was starting to feel a little tipsy. I saw the buildings across the river