He had given it to Bridgett.

I read the message once.

The words were small and ordinary.

That was what made them unbearable.

This was not a misunderstanding over a forgotten purchase or an impulsive moment after a business dinner.

He had planned the gift, chosen the recipient, and lied to both of us.

That afternoon I walked home instead of ordering a car.

I passed storefronts closing for the evening and commuters clustered beneath umbrellas.