My hand was white from gripping the phone. I had messaged him last night about the baby’s stuffy nose and lung inflammation, but he hadn’t replied. He probably knew I was at this hospital, too.
In the afternoon, William came with a bag of fruit. “Regina said her child had a fever and couldn’t manage alone, so I helped this morning. I didn’t see your message.”
I noticed a lipstick stain on his collar. He saw me looking and looked awkward. “The child is playful; she wore Regina’s lipstick and accidentally rubbed it on me when she kissed me.”
My heart had grown cold. Seeing him like this, my anger and resentment faded, replaced by calm. “Hmm.”
William paused, surprised by my reaction. Seeing how much weight I’d lost, a hint of guilt appeared in his eyes.
“You’ve been through a lot these past days. From now on, I’ll stay with you and your daughter and take care of you during your recovery.”
Before I could reply, his phone rang. It was Regina’s child’s ringtone. The little girl’s loud voice filled the room. “Daddy, answer! Mommy needs you! Daddy, answer!”
William quickly answered, “What is it? Okay, I’ll be right there.”
The next moment, he stood up. “Regina fell and hurt her foot. The baby’s been crying. I’m going to check on her.”
Finally, as if remembering, he added, “I’ll be right back.”
But, like before, until Rena and I were discharged, William only came three times and each time Regina quickly called him away.
I registered the child’s household on my own. The house was cold and quiet and even the windowsill plants were mostly wilted.
I bought formula and diapers myself, carrying them all while holding the baby, walking awkwardly down the street.
At the street corner, William was with Regina and her child, chatting and laughing. Regina wore a pink Chanel dress with perfect makeup.
I recognized that dress; William bought it last month on a business trip. It cost $1,846. He said it was a gift for a client.
Last year, I bought shoes for $184 and he said they were too expensive. He made me return them, saying life was about necessities and expensive clothes weren’t needed.
When he saw me, William’s smile froze. He walked over but didn’t take Rena from my arms, holding Regina’s daughter’s hand instead. “You’re discharged? Didn’t we agree I’d pick you up?”
I looked indifferent. “No need. Didn’t you say you were worried Regina might get scammed and wanted to help her pick a car?”