Chapter 2

2.

I had just finished dumping all the food into the trash when Zachary called.

His voice was full of irritation. "What's with the birthday post? Why did you post a photo of just yourself and the cake?"

"Are you trying to tell your family that I didn't spend the day with you?"

In previous years, he was always in my photos.

No matter how busy he was, he used to make it home.

This was the first year he didn't bother.

"I'm not," I replied softly. My voice was flat, devoid of any emotion.

"Stop acting. I know you're upset that I'm not there," he snapped.

"I told you, I had an emergency at work. I couldn't get away. Besides, didn't I send you money?"

"Stop being so petty."

"Anyway, I'm still busy. I have to go."

The line went dead with a loud beep.

I let out a self-deprecating laugh. I was such a fool for hoping he would change.

Love that has gone bad can never be made fresh again.