When she made noise while cleaning, her husband became irate, but she was about to discover a sinister secret.

Anger quickly gave way to panic on his face. He blocked the doorway and muttered, “It’s just a client.” “Avoid getting involved.”

However, I didn’t believe it! As I pushed by him and entered the room, my stomach turned suspicious.

The scene in front of me was stunning! A colorful, cartoonish online game was shown on the computer screen. A lively, animated avatar named “SUZYLOVELY88” was displayed in a video call window in the corner of the screen. As though this were the most hilarious thing ever, the avatar burst out laughing.

“What is this?” My voice was solid but wavering.

Jake’s anger turned into outrage. He puffed out his chest like he often did when he was trapped and declared, “It’s my hobby.” “You’re so dull all the time! I need to get away! I understand Suzy. Unlike you, she is enjoyable to converse with.

It seemed as though someone had hit me!

“Your pastime?” I said it again, raising my voice. “While I’ve been working nonstop to support this family, you’ve been shutting yourself in here and acting like you’re working? For what purpose? To converse online with a complete stranger?

“She isn’t just a random person!” Jake’s cheeks flushed and he snapped. “I can’t say enough for you—she actually listens to me.”

Stunted into stillness, I blinked. The children’s inquisitive gazes darted between us as they peered around the bend. Fortunately, they complied when I motioned for them to retire to their rooms.

I felt my rage flare up as I turned back to Jake. “Are you able to hear yourself?” My voice was shaking with emotion as I spoke.

“I have given up all for you—for us! Additionally, you have been sitting here squandering time on this bullshit.

Jake sneered, his confidence eroding. “Maybe I wouldn’t need this if you weren’t constantly so tired and groggy.”

I didn’t care that tears were streaming down my face. Infuriated once more, he continued, “You know what? I’m finished! I’m heading to Suzy! She truly brings me joy!

Without glancing at me, he ran out of the office, took a duffel bag from the bedroom closet, and began packing in clothes. I tried to reason with him as I followed him, but he refused to listen. And he was gone in an instant.

The following day went by quickly. I wavered between sadness, fury, and a strange sensation of relief. Both physically and emotionally, the house felt calmer. I consistently responded to the children’s inquiries about Daddy’s return date by saying, “I don’t know, sweetheart.”

Jake’s mom called on the second day. It was unexpected, and I was taken aback by the urgency in her voice.

“I know you’re upset, sweetie, but I have to tell you something,” she started.

“What is it?” Bracing myself, I asked.