Uneven in places.

Close to the scalp.

My stomach turned.

For ten years, Julian had mocked small things about me whenever he wanted to remind me that he believed he was cleverer.

My clothes were too conservative.

My laugh was too loud.

My charitable work was “cute.”

My father had spoiled me.

My business judgment was supposedly inherited rather than earned.

I told myself those comments were simply part of Julian’s personality.

Sharp humor.

Stress.

Ambition.

Marriage requires patience.