Hubby jets off on a solo vacay, too impatient to wait for his wife. A week later, he’s back from the Bahamas and finds this…

Her words were earnest, full of compassion and wisdom, as she painted a picture of a promising future that awaited him if he could only stop blaming himself and start putting his life back together. Throughout their conversation, Janice maintained steady eye contact, her eyes radiating warmth and understanding. Her kind smile never faltered, offering him comfort and acceptance.

For Dylan, who hadn’t felt such warmth and kindness in two long years, her generosity was overwhelming. This encounter with a complete stranger, who had not only let him in for a hot shower and a meal, but had also offered him empathy and advice, was a ray of hope in his otherwise bleak existence. The spark of hope that Dylan felt was unlike anything he’d experienced in the past two years.

He had spent so long aimlessly wandering, living on the streets, nursing his guilt and steeped in his sorrow. He had almost forgotten what it felt like to have a purpose, a goal, a desire for a future that held more than just mere survival. Meeting Janice, receiving her compassion and understanding, and hearing her encouraging words had triggered something within him.

He felt a strong pull, a stirring in his heart to break free from his self-imposed chains. He began to envision a future where he could stand tall, a future where the pains of the past did not dictate his path. The desire to change was no longer a mere thought but a compelling force driving him.

He longed for the warmth of a home, the comfort of a steady job and the healing power of connections with others. Most of all, he yearned for self-redemption, a chance to forgive himself and the opportunity to rebuild his life from the ruins. At one point, Dylan realized he was still dressed in a borrowed robe.

He jumped up looking at himself awkwardly. Is this your… He started but Janice offered a sad smile. It’s okay, don’t worry about it.

Dylan sat back down. Once they had finished their meal, he rose and began gathering his dirty clothes. Sensing his discomfort, Janice told him he could use her washing machine and stay the night.

I’m sorry for being such a burden. I don’t even know how to thank you. It’s alright Dylan, don’t worry.

Everything’s okay. Thank you once again, Dylan hesitated before asking his next question. Janice, may I use your computer please? Dylan requested breaking the silence.

Of course, feel free, she responded, gesturing towards her laptop. As Dylan began clicking away on her laptop, Janice sat in the living room, her mind swirling with her own tales of sorrow. She longed to unburden her heart to this stranger who had shared his deepest pain with her.

But the words remained stuck in her throat. Gathering her courage, she rose and walked over to Dylan. Dylan? She started, her voice shaking slightly.

I don’t want you to think less of me for letting a stranger into my home. It’s just, my husband… Well, I hardly know how to put it. Today he left for a vacation with his mistress.

Dylan’s fingers froze above the keyboard and he turned to look at her, his eyes widening in surprise. Really? That happened? She nodded, sharing a brief overview of her predicament. Dylan shook his head in disbelief.

I thought this kind of thing only happened in movies. I’m really sorry to hear that. So, what’s your next move? She sighed heavily before responding.

I’m gonna file for divorce, but… But what? Dylan urged her to continue. I’m just not sure… He… He might not be on board with the idea. Dylan paused, his brows furrowing before he let out a soft chuckle.

Wait, so let me get this straight. Your husband is off gallivanting with his mistress, and you’re worried he might not like the idea of a divorce? The absurdity of the situation was evident, but it wasn’t amusing. As Dylan looked into Janice’s eyes, he saw a hint of fear mingling with the confusion.

This kind, innocent woman, so beautiful in her simplicity, was caught in a whirlpool of emotional turmoil. Are you scared of him? He gently asked. I don’t know…