Page 10 of Mercy Lake

Exhaustion soon took hold and shackled me to the depths of oblivion, where I wished I could stay.

I woke with a start, soft voices trailing down the corridor into Alicia’s room, in which I was alone. The blinds were closed, but that didn’t prevent the streaks of sun peeking through the sides.

After cleaning myself up in the bathroom, I followed the distinct smell of coffee.

My parents were huddled on the couch while my sister was in the kitchen. I stood in the archway, frozen, not wanting to break down again, not wanting to show weakness.

Hadn’t I cried enough?

They catalogued my appearance. One didn’t have to be a genius to take in my puffy eyes, reddened face and pale pallor.

Instead of saying anything, my dad opened his arms wide in invitation, and I launched to his side. My mum and dad held me between them as I let go.Let everything go.

Along the way, Mum and Alicia had joined the tearful party while Dad continued to console. When we had finally settled with a fresh cup of caffeine in hand, all that remained was rage. Undiluted, ugly rage.

“Divorce. That’s my answer. The only answer.”

Mum shifted. “But—”

“I don’t want anything to do with them. Ihatethem.” Mum and Alicia shared a glance, and I snapped. “What?”

Alicia bit into her bottom lip, considering. “Maybe you should talk to him? Get answers before you—”

“Before what, Alicia? The worst has already happened.”

“I’m just saying. Divorce is so final.”

I scoffed. “And a baby isn’t? Unless you are in fact insinuating that I shouldignorethat my husband knocked up another woman. My supposedfriend, Everly. Is that what you’re saying, Alicia? Just want to be clear on where your loyalties lie, that’s all.”

Her face dropped at my accusing tone. I was harsh, but it was vital. I had already been betrayed by two people I trusted—andone of them had even promised sacred vows. He vowed to love and protect me forever. What a joke.

Alicia rolled her shoulders back. “I am loyal toyou,Alexis. You are my sister, my blood. You don’t ever have to ask that of me. I just want to make sure you don’t have any regrets.”

“The only regrets I have are marrying that two-timing man whore and letting that homewrecking slut into my life. Once they’re gone, I will have no more regrets.”

Mum turned to push an errant hair behind my ear. “We will support whatever you decide, darling. If you’re sure.”

“I’m sure, Mama. He has chosen his path, and now I have chosen mine.”

I could sense they wanted to say more, but they respected my boundaries and my decision.

The rest of the day, we researched divorce lawyers and made enquiries. By the end, I was exhausted and emotionally drained.

I stood on the balcony of Alicia’s apartment as the sun descended, causing a burnt orange glow to stain the city skyline.

Dad stepped up beside me, his hands grasping the rail next to mine. That’s when I noticed his grazed knuckles.

“What happened?” I held my breath, knowing the truth would wound me, yet wanting it anyway.

“I punched him. Your mother only let me get one hit in, so I’m glad I made that one count.”

I nudged his shoulder with mine. A slight spark of amusement filtered away as soon as it came, leaving only worry behind.

“How’d he take it?” I whispered. I didn’t even know why I cared.

“He didn’t fight back. Owen was… broken before I even got to touch him.”

“I’m broken too, Dad.” My voice cracked.

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