The Other Woman Wasn’t Even Pretty - Chapter 5: Chapter 5

I made it back just in time for Dad's birthday celebration. This year they'd decided to host it at a hotel, gathering all our relatives and friends together.
The venue wasn't far from home. Five round tables filled the banquet room, each surrounded by familiar faces.
I kept hearing people ask about Jack.
Thankfully, our son had an after-school activity and couldn't make it.
My parents deftly sidestepped the questions. Just as dinner was about to start and Dad stood up to give his speech, Jack walked in.
He looked polished in a tailored suit and tie, arms loaded with gift bags and a thick red envelope.
The room erupted in greetings.
Jack waited patiently until Dad finished speaking, then approached with the envelope. "Happy birthday, Dad."
Dad gave it a dismissive glance. "That's too generous, Mr. Wilson. Since you and Olivia are divorced now, I couldn't possibly accept this."
Jack's face went rigid. A murmur swept through the crowd before an awkward silence fell.
"We're still just in the agreement phase..." Jack said quietly.
Dad shook his head. "Same difference."
With that, he turned to toast the guests.
Jack stood frozen, his grip tightening on the gift bags until Mom gently took them from him.
He left without another word.
The message was clear. After that, no one mentioned Jack to me again.
And you know what? It felt good.
Day by day, I was healing. Shedding the identity of Mrs. Wilson like an old coat.
I was Olivia Whitaker again.
Even the building staff and company housekeeper caught on quickly - "Miss Whitaker" replaced "Mrs. Wilson" overnight.
Needing to stay busy, I decided to open a café. Found the perfect location - a charming space with great bones. Signed the papers immediately.
The existing staff would stay on, but I wanted to revamp the menu and redecorate.
We set a soft opening date.
After a long day finalizing plans, I checked my calendar in the car.
Divorce countdown: 15 days.