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“You don’t believe that,” said Annabelle. “I have never seen two people more right for each other. And when you find that, you have to believe that it’s worth fighting for.”

“Caleb would disagree.” My laugh was bitter, and I didn’t want that. I didn’t want to behave like a scorned ex.

“You know, it took me months to get over what Brian did to me, but I did, and I realized that it was worth it. Most women would leave if a guy cheated, and trust me, I was ready to kick his ass to the curb. I’m glad I didn’t.”

Annabelle was trying to be a good friend, I could recognize and admire that. I had few people I could talk to, and even fewer who would bother to check up on me. But what she thought happened, and what really happened were worlds apart.

“What made you stay?”

I was curious to know.

“I thought about what my life would be like without him, and when I couldn’t picture it, I decided to give him another chance. We started from scratch, and he hasn’t been unfaithful since. When he asked me to marry him, I knew it was the right time, and that for the rest of our lives he would love me, and only me.”

“Everything with Caleb was a lie, Annabelle. You can’t have a relationship with someone based on something that wasn’t real.”

“You may think it wasn’t real, but it was, and it is.”

Annabelle really had no idea what she was talking about, but I didn’t want to burst her bubble by saying that. She was just trying to be a good friend.

“I think I need to move on,” I told her honestly. “That’s what’s best for me right now.”

It was Annabelle’s turn to look forlorn, like she’d failed. It was the exact opposite actually. She helped me see that some things just weren’t meant to be, and there was a greater sense of acceptance in that realization than I ever thought possible.

“Just be sure, honey.” Annabelle squeezed my hand. “I think Caleb is afraid to tell you how he really feels, so it might be worth taking that first step.”

Rather than argue, I gave my friend a genuine smile, grateful that she cared. “I just need time, time to take care of myself, and time to be on my own.”

“I understand.” We stood up. “Brian and I are going to watch an old movie tonight in Bryant Park, you’re welcome to join us.”

“Thanks for the offer, but I think I’d rather be alone, if that’s okay.”

“Of course. Let me know if you change your mind, we’d be happy to have you.”

I nodded, and we walked back to the office, falling into step with everyone around us. I was anxious about being back in the office, the last thing I needed was to pretend (some more) that I hadn’t heard Caleb, Aaliyah, and Macy talking, or that I was unaffected by what I heard. For the time being I figured it was better to leave it, and deal with it at a time when I wasn’t so emotionally volatile. I’d already given Caleb too much. He didn’t deserve more.