“I want the liquid capital held in your personal name that corresponds to our marital asset split.

I want the division finalized now, today — before there is any public wedding.” I let my voice tremble.

“I’m just so frightened that you’ll fall in love with her for real, and I’ll be left with nothing.”

His face softened into pure condescension.

He reached up and stroked my cheek.

“You foolish girl.

Bianca could never be to me what you are.” And he signed, on the spot, with a fond little shake of his head, just as I had known he would.

He thought he was buying my patience for a year.