Chapter 2
563 Words
Charlie worked tirelessly for an entire month.
His company is in the startup phase. He mentioned needing to work overtime and having dinners with clients. I completely understand; after all, he does all of this for our family.
On the day he finalized his project contract, I called to reserve a table at a high-end restaurant. That day also marked our third wedding anniversary, and Charlie promised to celebrate with me.
I reserved a table for 7 PM. I started my makeup and prepared at 5 PM. I left home by 6 PM and arrived at the restaurant by 6:30 PM.
I waited inside the restaurant from sunset until it was completely dark, but Charlie still hadn't arrived. I even cheerfully ordered a bottle of red wine at 7 PM.
I called Charlie, but his phone was off.
Followed Charlie's ex-girlfriend on social media. She is a ballet dancer and recently returned to New York.
Tonight marks her debut performance in the city. In the photos she posted, I noticed an unexpected arm in the frame. It belonged to a butterfly-shaped cuff, inlaid with enamel, which I had gifted to Charlie for his birthday.
Why does this not astonish me at all?
In fact, I am not only unperturbed; I find it rather amusing.
I proceed to make phone calls. I contact Charlie's assistant, then reach out to his business associate. I follow up with calls to his close friends, their girlfriends, and even his relatives.
My purpose for these calls is not to vent my frustrations or to tarnish Charlie's reputation.
I merely cannot locate him and feel overwhelmed with concern.
After all, I am simply a devoted wife, anxious and confused over the disappearance of my husband. How could I harbor any ill intentions?
In the past, no matter how many issues I had with Charlie, I never argued with him, nor did I let anyone else know about it. I just wanted to give him some respect. But honestly, Charlie is such a shameless jerk.
After making several calls, I felt quite positive.
I sat in a fancy restaurant, enjoyed some nice music, poured myself some red wine, sliced into a steak, and had a great dinner.
After I was full, I downed the last bit of wine. I could feel the buzz kicking in, so I decided to go for something big.
I contacted Charlie's ex-girlfriend’s brother and said, "I apologize for reaching out so late. I'm Leila, Charlie's wife. He promised to come home tonight, but he's still not back. His phone is off, and I am concerned something might have happened to him. If you hear from him, please inform me."
I put on a really anxious tone, sounding weak and a bit whiny, and added a hint of a sob.
After a long pause, the man spoke with a deep but gentle voice: "Charlie is fine. Nothing has happened. No need for concern."
I breathed out, relieved, and asked, "Do you know where he is? I’ll go pick him up right now."
He paused again, and I could almost picture the awkwardness and helplessness on his face.
Then he said, "He probably won’t be coming home tonight."
I sniffled and replied, "Oh, I see."
After hanging up, I bent down, covering my face, and just burst out laughing. I laughed so hard my stomach started cramping!
- Writer
