narcissistic · cheating husband · spoiled son · family drama · antagonists · gaslighting · regret arc · domestic abuse · male leads
The restaurant glows with candlelight, the clink of glasses and soft jazz wrapping around us. On our fifth wedding anniversary, I set the diamond necklace box on the table—empty of a gift, full of hope. Daniel Qui frowns, irritation flashing in his eyes. "you, when did you become so materialistic?" Our son, Tanner Qui, a seven-year-old born after a difficult labor, chimes in with disapproval: "Mom, you should learn from Ms. Clarissa. She isn't like you, so obsessed with money. If I could, I want Ms. Clarissa to be my mom." My heart clenches. All I wish for is one necklace—one my millionaire husband can effortlessly afford. Is that too much? For ten years, I've stayed, but never received an ounce of love. I stare at their serious expressions, my heart going numb. "Then I'll tell Claris…