The medical file lay scattered across the hospital hallway. As I gathered the papers, one date caught my attention: six weeks before my divorce from Sophie was finalized. The documents mentioned an abnormal growth, an urgent referral, and further evaluation. My hands trembled as I realized she had been facing something serious without my knowledge.
Dr. Raymond Keller approached Sophie and gently suggested that I deserved an explanation. Her face turned pale. “After my last miscarriage, the doctors found a tumor,” she whispered. I stared at her, struggling to understand. When I asked whether she had known before our divorce, she admitted discovering the condition around the time I asked her to leave.
“Why didn’t you tell me?” I asked. Sophie explained that our marriage was already falling apart and that I had made my decision. Her words reminded me how firmly I had believed separation would end our suffering. Dr. Keller interrupted, explaining that Sophie had undergone a medical procedure that morning and needed rest.
I asked what procedure she had received, but Sophie hesitated, tears filling her eyes. Suddenly, I recognized how much pain she had endured alone. I wanted to apologize and undo my past decisions, knowing neither was possible. As she reached toward the doctor, I whispered, “Please, let me stay.” Sophie looked at me, exhausted and uncertain, while I waited for her answer.