Chapter 16

Marilyn repeatedly advised Dexie to divorce Luke Huxley, whom she considered a failure and a bastard. Just mention of his name made her mutter expletives.

Dexie took the vodka from Marilyn with a slight smile and brought it to her lips, causing her to cough from the burning sensation. She felt sick and nauseous, with a strange feeling in her throat, fearing she might vomit.

"Dexie, how can you drink such strong vodka in one go?" Marilyn asked, concerned as Dexie's cheeks turned bright red. Marilyn rushed to pat her on the back.

"How do you feel? Are you okay?"

After recovering from the shock, Dexie reassured Marilyn, "It's okay. I was just thirsty and drank too fast." She looked away, hiding the pain in her eyes, then poured herself a glass of vodka before slowly responding to Marilyn's question.

"Honestly, I realized a long time ago that he doesn't love me. He hates me. It's fair..." Dexie paused, with a self-deprecating expression, and added, "I'm not ready to give up, you know.