Page 50 of The Breaking Point

I pause. “Back when I got this job, that promotion was my dream. I worked for it. Fought for it. But now… it just feels like more work.”

He nods slowly, like he’s heard this before. “Dreams are allowed to change.”

I exhale, my voice quieter now. “Maybe.”

Chapter 19

I'm twirling in front of the mirror in my bedroom.

After my therapy appointment, I went to the salon and got the full treatment. The boys were with Aiden, and Mom and my brother were at the hospital with Dad. I didn’t think the nurse would appreciate another screaming match, so I just... had a me day.

My hair’s blown out, cascading in soft waves. My nails are pretty and perfect. I even got a facial, so my skin is glowing, I didn’t need any makeup except for the dark eyes and bold lipstick. The dress is a deep navy, tight at the top, flowing at the bottom. I feel sexy. Tonight, I’m going to remind Aiden exactly what he’s going to miss out on when he goes home alone.Ha.

All that’s left are the heels, the ones Iknowwill destroy him. They're on the top shelf of my closet, and of course I didn’t think to grab them before putting this dress on.

I open the bedroom door and call out, “Guys!”

A beat later, I hear a muffledwhaaa?from Alex’s room.

“Sweetie, can you help me?”

He comes out, muttering something I can’t make out, head buried in his phone.

“Can you grab the box up there?” I point to the top of the closet.

He shrugs, climbs up on the little stool, and pulls the box down. Setting it in front of me, he finally looks up and pauses.

“Ma… you look good.”

I smile. “Thank you, baby.”

“Where you going?”

I was going to sit the boys down and tell them over dinner. But they barely paid attention when I said I had plans later, so I didn’t bother. Let them be surprised.

“Just wanted to feel pretty,” I say casually. “I have a date.” Opening the box, I pull out the heels; spiked, unapologetic, and perfect.

Alex shouts, “Jack!”

I’m too busy admiring the sex-as-sin heels in my hand. Sitting at the vanity, I bend down to put them on. I haven’t worn these since… well, Aiden will remember. Oh yes. He will.

Jack comes running into the room, out of breath. “What?”

Alex just points.

Jack blinks. “Ma… you look good.”

I chuckle. “Thank you, baby.”

“Where’s she going?” he asks Alex.

“She’s going on a date,” I say for them, slipping on the second heel.

Just then, the doorbell rings.

“Ooo, there he is.” I grab my clutch, with phone and lipstick tucked inside.

The boys look at each other, wide-eyed, and then bolt for the front door, tripping over their own feet. I follow at a slower pace. Glowing. Ready.

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