Chapter 2

2.

My father wasn't a fool. He processed my words instantly, and his joy turned into pure rage.

"Is that woman planning to dump you?"

"I knew it! I heard the transfer news. Is she leaving you behind to go solo?"

"Just wait! I'm coming down there to give her a piece of my mind!"

I quickly stopped him.

"There's no point, Dad."

"In seven days, I'm bringing Andy home. Just come pick us up then."

I hung up the phone just as Sienna walked back through the door. A thin layer of snow covered her coat.

She brushed it off, her forehead creased in a deep frown.

"Where are you going in seven days?"

"Caleb, you promised me you'd give your spot to Quinton. Are you seriously trying to go behind my back?"

Her voice was sharp with accusation. She was terrified I would ruin her lover's chance to leave.

I didn't even look at her. My voice remained flat and calm.

"I called my dad. I'm taking Andy back to the ranch."

Sienna blinked, confused. "Why would you go home now?"

I looked at her then, my expression cold and distant.

"We've been married for ten years. Andy is seven years old, and he hasn't met his grandfather once. Don't you think it's time?"

Sienna looked embarrassed for a split second, but she quickly found an excuse.

"I've just been so busy with work. Caleb, you know I'm the only doctor for miles in this county…"

I didn't want to hear her justifications. I turned my back on her and walked into the bedroom.

Sienna suddenly flared up in anger.

"Caleb, why are you being so immature?"

"Quinton is literally running a fever! I was so worried about you and the boy that I ran back here to check on you, and all you give me is a cold shoulder?"

"If I knew you were going to be like this, I wouldn't have bothered coming back!"

"Then don't," I said.

I meant it.

For ten years, I had been her husband in name only. I was less than a roommate to her.

Whenever she came home, she either slept or barked orders at me like I was a servant.

If I did one little thing wrong, she would scold me for hours.

She even criticized Andy, calling him a "unrefined country brat" who didn't know manners.

I realized now that I had only tolerated her cruelty because I loved her.

But Sienna clearly didn't have a drop of affection for me.

I was done.

If she wanted to be with Quinton, she could have him. I was going back to being a farmer.