Chapter 22
Penelope pressed, “Then when are you going to divorce her?”
‘Divorce…‘ Caleb had been hearing that word more than any other lately. Everyone seemed to believe that leaving Sydney was the only right thing to do. But whenever he heard it, something tightened in his chest, cutting off his breath.
He couldn’t explain it. Maybe it was because a divorce now would rattle Hampton Corp.’s stock. Maybe it would damage Penelope’s reputation. Either way, he was certain of one thing–he couldn’t get divorced.
Without thinking, he said, “Not now, not ever.”
The next morning, Sydney stirred and checked the time. Caleb’s message flashed across her
screen.
Caleb: [What’s the matter? I’ll talk to you when I get home tomorrow.]
She understood. He didn’t want her making a scene in front of Penelope. He was probably
worried she’d show up and hurl another IV pole at Penelope’s head.
Still, that message was enough. Once he came home and they had that conversation, she could finally leave this house that had long since stopped feeling like home.
She got dressed, calm and resolved. But just as she stepped out of the walk–in closet, she
paused.
Caleb had never spoiled her with affection, but as the Hampton daughter–in–law, she’d
occasionally accompanied him to formal events where a wife’s presence was expected. Her
closet overflowed with designer gowns, fine jewelry, and expensive bags.
The Hamptons had money to burn. After the divorce, most of it would end up where it belonged–in the trash. So why not put it to better use?
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Chapter 22
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Sydney contacted a charity. The organization would sort the items and use the proceeds to support underprivileged girls in continuing their education.
After everything was packed and handed off to Nancy for shipping, Sydney finally went downstairs for breakfast. As she passed the living room, she stopped short.
Caleb’s mother, Adeline Mayer, sat primly on the sofa in a tailored Chanel suit, her expression ice–cold.
Sydney blinked. “Mom? What brings you here?”
Adeline gestured. “Come sit.”
On the coffee table sat a gift box with the ribbon undone.
Sydney’s stomach turned. She didn’t know if Caleb had seen the divorce papers, but his
mother clearly had.
She walked over slowly and took a steady breath. “You saw it?”
“You want a divorce.” Adeline had never played the lofty, judgmental mother–in–law. Her tone softened as she reached for Sydney’s hand and guided her to sit. “Why didn’t you tell
me or Grandma?”
Sydney leaned forward and poured her a cup of coffee. Her voice stayed gentle. “Grandma was just hospitalized. I didn’t want to risk upsetting her again.”
Adeline sighed.
“And filing for divorce behind our backs wouldn’t affect her health?” She caught herself and softened. “I know you’ve always been thoughtful. You must have your reasons. But are you sure it’s come to this?”
“Mom.” Sydney stared at the marble floor. Her lashes cast long shadows beneath her eyes.
A silence stretched between them before she finally said, “I’ve been married to Cal for three years, and we’ve never even shared a bed.”
