The celebration was over. The guests had left. Ainsworth’s home was quiet now. Gabriel and Isla had also gone back home.

As always, they went into their separate rooms. No words were spoken. Just silence.

But Isla did not sleep.

Instead, she pulled out two large suitcases from her closet. She began to pack her things. She folded her clothes, her shoes, and every other item into them. Tonight, there were no tears left. Only determination.

At twenty-five, she told herself that her life was not over. She had dreams, goals, and so much ahead of her. She could not keep wasting herself in a loveless marriage, trying to please everyone else while punishing herself.

In the morning, Gabriel prepared for work as he always did. His routine never changed. Before leaving, he went to the kitchen for the one thing he never missed—Isla’s chicken consommé.

He had grown addicted to it. No matter what was happening between them, he always looked forward to that soup.

When he entered, the housekeeper Magdalene greeted him politely.

“Good morning, Mr. Wyndham. Your soup is ready.”

She served him quickly and left. Gabriel sat on the high stool, sipping the hot, clear broth. It was as comforting as always. He did not notice that somewhere else, his wife was already setting a new path for her life.

***

Isla had risen very early. By dawn, she was already at her lawyer’s office. Without giving it another thought. She signed the divorce papers. She was ready to leave her husband.

When she walked back to her car, her phone rang. It was her best friend, Betsy.

“I got your message,” Betsy said quickly. “Where are you?”

“I just left the lawyer’s office,” Isla replied softly. “I’m on my way to your place now.”

“Okay, see you soon.”

***

“Finally! You did the right thing,” Betsy said as she opened the door. Her voice was filled with relief as she pulled Isla into a hug.

Isla managed a small smile as she wheeled her suitcase inside. She dropped it near the couch and sat down, feeling suddenly tired.

“I’m going back to Teriporto,” Isla said after a moment. “Is that space still available?”

Betsy tilted her head, frowning. She knew what Isla meant. Years ago, when they were in college, they had tried to start a small jewelry business together in Teriporto. They had used a little two-bedroom apartment and turned one of the rooms into a workshop. But the dream died quickly when they ran out of money.

“Yes, it’s still there,” Betsy said. “Everything is intact. But tell me, Isla, what are you planning to do with that old place?”

“I already told you. I want to start my own company. Something that will keep me busy. Something that’s mine.”

Betsy leaned back in her chair, studying her friend. “You really want to leave Carminton? You’re serious about this?”

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