My name was on the door.
Not Daniel’s.
Not Whitmore.
Mine.
Claire Vale.
My coffee was still hot.
The morning was quiet.
And for the first time in years, so was my heart.
Miriam walked onto the balcony carrying a folder.
“Daniel’s remaining assets were liquidated this morning.”
I continued watching the sunrise.
“Good.”
She stood beside me.
After a moment, she asked, “Do you feel better?”
I thought about the courthouse.
Daniel laughing.
Vanessa’s diamond ring flashing in the winter sunlight.
The divorce papers Daniel had waved like a trophy.
And the woman I had been when I walked away from them alone.
Then I smiled.
“No.”
Miriam looked at me.
I turned toward the sunrise.
“I feel free.”