The ChangeI’d thought of leaving before, and even made plans for it. But when I firmly decided to leave as a definite act of will, a tremendous weight lifted from me.
Tony asked, “What is it?”
I kissed his cheek. “Things will turn out well. You’ll see.”
Of course, all the other reasons I couldn’t leave still remained. But it felt manageable: remove one card — mine — and the game was won. And yet I felt a great fondness for Tony, as if he were already free of me and happy.
Perhaps I was mad, but it was a beautiful madness, where everything seemed so clear.
Tony gazed into my eyes: his heart lay bare. “You’re a better woman than I ever imagined. I promise never to hide anything from you again.”
Then madness passed; grief and anger returned. I rose, turned away. “Let’s go inside.” So I
