I stood in the hallway outside Nancy's room and listened to my own breath. My hands were cold. I had just heard him tell Serena that I was only a maid. He said it without looking at me. The word went through me like ice.
I thought about everything that had already happened. I thought about the quiet nights, the closed doors, and the way he only softened when Serena called. I did not argue with myself anymore. I made a simple decision: I would end this marriage. I would not beg for space in a life that was never meant for me. I would handle Nancy's illness first. Then I would ask for the papers.
The doctor had been clear earlier. Nancy needed the herb. If we had it, her chances would be better. If we did not, the plan would be weaker. I wrote the name of the herb on my palm and said it tw
