In five years of marriage, Wilfred had always been meek, careful, obedient. He never dared step out of line. Yet here he was, demanding a divorce in front of everyone.
Where had he found the nerve?
Had he lost his mind?
"Wilfred, are you trying to pick a fight with me?"
"No. This isn't a fight. I mean every word."
He shook his head. "Hildegarde, there's only ever been one man in your heart, and it isn't me. Hilary has never seen me as her father either."
"For five years, you've taken her abroad every year. I know exactly what those trips are about."
"I'm in the way. So I'm stepping aside."
"Hilary, this is the last birthday I'll celebrate with you. Happy birthday."
With that, Wilfred took his younger daughter Penelope by the hand. His voice softened. "Penelope, come with Daddy."
"Okay." She nodded firmly.
"Wilfred!"
Hildegarde's composure shattered. She slammed her palm against the cake, sending it toppling. Her pale face flushed crimson. "You're making a scene in front of all these people! Are you trying to humiliate me?"
"I'll say this once more. Get back here. Take Penelope and go upstairs."
"This is your last chance!"
Wilfred didn't stop. Didn't turn around. Holding Penelope's hand, he walked toward the door, dozens of stares following him.
"Tomorrow. Two o'clock. Family Court."
Outside, a light rain had begun to fall.
Wilfred had brought an umbrella. He opened it, lifted Penelope into his arms, and carried her to the parking lot.
He settled her into the car seat in the back, then paused. She'd been so quiet, so well-behaved through all of it. His heart ached. He kissed her forehead.
"Penelope, Daddy's taking you away from Mommy and your sister. Do you blame me?"
"No." Her voice was small but unwavering. "Mommy wants to be with Uncle Patrick. She doesn't want us anymore. If she doesn't want us, we don't want her either."
"Alright. Daddy will take care of you from now on."
Something tightened in his chest.
He started the car and drove toward the Dickerson residence.
At the Pruitt house, the guests shifted uncomfortably.
"Hildegarde, don't be upset. Wilfred's clearly misunderstood something. Let me go explain—"
Patrick set Hilary down and made to stand, but Hildegarde caught his arm.
"Don't bother, Patrick."
"Trust me. He won't go through with it. Without me, he's nothing."