I did have my reasons to stay. Isn’t that what they all say?
My company was growing, and I spent time traveling around the world scouting for new office locations. It was easier to have someone waiting at home than find new dates wherever I went. Corinna was satisfied with our arrangement since my connections and money got us to different events to expand her network. We both had something to gain. I also hate dating and hookups, so being in a relationship was my thing anyway. My big paycheck didn’t hurt either. Even though I try my best to be careful with my money, I spent some of it spoiling Corinna.
The one thing I couldn’t give her was my heart. I had already given that away before meeting her. After she realized that I was nowhere near proposing, the fights started. At first, it would be about insignificant things like dirty dishes in the sink or my late nights at the office. She knew what she was signing up for with someone like me who lives for their job.
Our fights got bigger and bigger as time went by. We would argue and have shouting matches until the early hours after I came back from the office. Corinna threw every plate on the floor in a rage once, and the neighbors called the cops. She also tried to hit me with a bedside lamp, but I dodged in time, and it left a dent in the wall.
Then one night, I finally proposed. I know, stupid move on my part. I felt like I had no other choice. Everything was fine for weeks after that. Nothing seemed out of order.
It took three short months until I realized what was happening behind my back.
One of my business trips got cut short, and I planned to surprise Corinna with her favorite food—instead I caught her in our bed with my business partner when I arrived home earlier than expected. There was shouting, swearing, and crying on her part, especially after I hit him.
I fucking hit one of my best friends. Well, more like an ex-best friend.
I’m still surprised that Diego Garcia, Corinna’s now-husband and future baby daddy, didn’t press charges after I broke his nose. He deserved it after having sex with the woman I was supposed to marry later that year.
I’ll never forget the last thing she told me before leaving our shared home the following day. Corinna and Diego had been packing her possessions all day, and they looked tired. I had just arrived back in my old apartment that looked like a tornado had hit, making me boil inside. It was hard to keep my mouth shut. But I just wanted to get them out before crashing for the night.
No surprise, Corinna started another argument just before she left. She continued complaining until I told her to get out and never return. Hurling her last insults straight to my face, she snarled, “Diego has more love and sympathy for other people in his pinky finger than you have in your whole body. You’ll forever be bitter and alone. I hope you know that, Eli fucking Dalton.”
And that was the last time I saw them in person.
When Corinna posted about our breakup a week later, she blamed me and my violent, controlling nature for all of it. She made up a story with photographic evidence about how I was abusive towards her. It was all a massive lie; photographs touched up with makeup and Photoshop.
Too bad that the public and my company’s investors believed her. Dalton Enterprises lost some business. We still managed to get back to where we were before. But it has taken all my time and energy to get there.
I guess Corinna was great for one thing. She made me realize that I didn’t want anything less than what I had with Rose when we were younger. Until now, I thought I would never have it again. That I would never settle and start a family like I once hoped.
Now I feel like I might have another chance.
* * *
Sitting here in another meeting that could have been an email, I notice how there hasn’t been any progress since our last one.
“Should we set up another meeting for when you’ve done the requested changes to the latest quarterly report? I think it would be beneficial to all of us. Let me know if you need any help or comments. You know you can always email or text me if needed,” I tell the room. My VP of Product Development and her two team members nod their heads. My assistant, Poppy, takes notes as she manages my calendar.
Just as I’m ready to leave, I feel my phone vibrating in my pocket. Excusing myself, I leave the room and walk to the nearest restroom. Taking my phone out, I see Ollie’s name on the screen.
Ollie:Hey Eli, how was yesterday?
Eli:Dude, you’ll never believe it. My interviewer was Maggie Summers. She goes by the name Rose now.
Eli:And if it’s possible, she’s even more gorgeous now.
Ollie:Man, why didn’t you text us right away?! I can’t wait to see what J says.
Ollie:*middle finger emoji* *middle finger emoji* *rainbow emoji*
It’s hard to keep my expression neutral after that little rainbow after two middle fingers. It’s Ollie’s way to show that even though I’m acting like an ass, he still cares for me.
Eli:I had to figure out things before telling you. And about her… She ain’t so innocent looking anymore. *flame emoji*
Ollie:DAMN. This is TOO GOOD. One could even say that it’s pure gold.
Ollie:Let’s have dinner tonight. My treat. I need to hear more ASAP. I’ll message J.
Eli:Sure. Tres Besos at 7?
