Chapter 7

I arrived at the courthouse promptly on Friday morning, just as we had agreed, but Preston was a no-show. I lost my patience after waiting for an hour. I checked Melanie's Instagram and discovered that Preston and the others were still riding horses on a grassland a thousand miles away. I was at a loss for words, realizing that I wouldn't be able to wait for Preston today. My lawyer informed me that if we couldn't agree on a divorce, I would need to wait two years of separation before the commencement of divorce proceedings. I concluded that this was the only feasible course of action for the time being after careful consideration. I walked out of the courthouse and went straight home to pack my belongings. I noticed a family photo on the nightstand, taken at Wonderland Park back when Rowan was four years old. I had initially objected to the trip, as I believed Rowan was too young to enjoy it, and it would be a waste of money. Preston stroked my head, his expression filled with do