CHAPTER THIRTY-EIGHT: Marius Pent-up Anger

My head throbs! And it throbs more when the memories of the previous night come rushing back. It isn't making love—it’s just s.ex. Hazel doesn't really love me.

I quickly get dressed, then step out of the bedroom. In the living area, Sammy, in his walker, is playing with some toys I’ve bought for him. He giggles when he sees me.

I should just leave, but I can’t help but spend some more time with him.

"Hey, did you miss me?" I ask playfully.

Sammy giggles again, reaching out his tiny hands towards me which I happily take.

Then I glance around and notice something I haven't the night before—the house is almost empty. This isn't how it looked the last time I was here. Maybe Hazel is giving away her old furniture, since she can now afford buying better pieces that she’ll put in her new home.

Just as I’m about to say goodbye to Sammy, Hazel emerges from the kitchen.

"I prepared breakfast. Let's eat?" she asks, her voice hopeful.

I stare at her impassively, which makes her smile falt