Chapter 21 - Eric’s Apology
Eric began sending monthly letters from prison.
Each one used different words.
The message remained the same.
He was sorry.
He was ashamed.
He missed her.
He blamed pressure, fear, and his mother.
Lena ignored them.
Then Rachel received a letter intended for the divorce proceeding.
Eric offered to surrender all claims in exchange for Lena withdrawing part of the restitution judgment.
He still wanted a deal.
Even his apology was transactional.
Lena rejected the offer.
The divorce was finalized without trial because Eric eventually agreed to the financial terms.
He received no interest in the house.
No share of the trust.
No access to Lena’s retirement accounts.
His remaining assets were applied to restitution.
When the final decree arrived, Lena expected grief.
Instead, she felt quiet.
She removed her wedding ring and placed it beside the cream folder.
The gesture reminded her of the night she picked up her keys.
But this time no one watched.
No one panicked.
The choice required no performance.
May you like
She closed the folder.
The marriage was over.
