He let out a low chuckle. I heard a muffled sound on his end, a moan, and my blood ran cold.
"I will, sweetheart," he said, voice laced with something I already knew. "But I can't go home tonight. Got… important business."
And then I heard it. Serafina's laugh, right there, behind him.
"I'll be home tomorrow," he added like nothing was wrong.
I smiled faintly, my voice calm. "Yeah, sure."
"I love you, sweetheart."
"Mm. Sleep well," I whispered, then ended the call before he could say another word. My hand trembled, but my chest felt lighter than it had in years.
When the boarding gate opened, I stood, clutching my passport like it was the only thing keeping me alive. My phone lit up again with his name. I didn't hesitate. I powered it off.
Stepping onto the plane, I finally felt free. I whispered under my breath, "Goodbye, Marcello. I'm not yours anymore."
