114

THE BITCH WHO RUINED IT ALL

"You are not staying long are you?" Maria asked sadly. "Your husband has a way of taking the fun of life every time he calls."

Maria's tone sounded so defeated that it made Diana feel bad. She wished that she could spend longer hours with Maria. She felt as if since she got that job, she hardly ever had time for her friend.

"I am so sorry, Maria. It's been quite hectic even with us apart. It's just one problem or the other," Diana solemnly replied, the weariness in her voice evident.

"How so?" Maria asked, a mixture of concern and worry etched themselves on her face.

"For starters, Matteo has changed somehow...he is less demanding and firmer. It's like he became a new person entirely," Diana said broadly.

Chad said nothing but listened and occasionally sipped his wine. He could relate to Matteo's transformation. He had to change at a point in his life himself. It had been filled with traumatic experiences.

Maria said nothing, waiting for her friend to conti