A Marriage of One

The moment Madeline Lockhart confirms her pregnancy, the first thing she does is ask a lawyer to draft divorce papers. "Ms. Lockhart, once both parties have signed, the marriage will be officially dissolved after the one-month cooling-off period," the lawyer explains. Madeline remains composed as she asks, "Can I sign for him?" The lawyer looks surprised, then shakes his head. "No, I'm afraid not. He has to be there in person." "He's agreed to the divorce," she says evenly. "He's just too busy with work to show up. Here, I'll call him so he can tell you himself." With that, Madeline takes out her phone and calls Bradley Shaw. "Bradley, there's something I need to talk to you ab—" Before she can finish, his cold, clipped voice cuts her off. "I told you, didn't I? Handle everything yourself. I don't have time for your nonsense."