Ruining Their Life
She could not wait for her wedding day. However, when he began arriving home late, she examined their savings account and discovered that $5,000 was missing from their wedding fund.
She could not believe that the man she loved would betray her like this. She was not going to let him ruin their life together before it even started, she had to confront him.
Difficult Life
Cindy's whole childhood got turned upside down due to her father's horrible communication skills. Her father did not share with her mother that he no longer had a job, which lead to them spending all their savings. Her parents eventually divorced and she was heartbroken.
Because of her father's dishonesty, Cindy vowed to always be truthful regardless of the consequences. She had no idea that her attitude would ultimately result in the breakdown of her marriage.
Dreams Coming True
Cindy knew that the only thing she wanted in her life, was a happy and healthy marriage. She wanted a partner who would support and love her through the good and the bad.
She was lucky enough to meet her soulmate Trent, who she dated for two years. When he proposed to her, she felt like her heart was going to explode. Her life was finally coming together, but she did not know how wrong she turned out to be...
Perfect Life
The pair lived together in Denver, Colorado alongside their 10-year-old dog named Izanagi. Trent loved Izanagi almost as much as he loved Cindy.
Cindy was an artist and Trent was an architect. Trent had a well-established career. They were living their best lives, but their happiness was short-lived.
Staying At Work
One night after work, Cindy noticed that Trent wasn't home. He always got home around the same time, so she was concerned. She knew she had to call him immediately.
Trent picked up instantly, the phone barely rang. He informed her that he was stuck at work and that he should have texted her. Trent promised her that it was a one-time thing, but it turned into days of coming home late.
Strange Behavior
Trent continued to work late for two weeks. Trent would only come home well past midnight. What was strange, however, is that he started taking the dog with him.
Cindy's mind was consumed by various thoughts. Was he out drinking every night? What was he getting up to? She knew him very well, and something was definitely off.
The Truth Hurts
Cindy could not help but overthink. She had to find out what he was getting up to. One evening, she phoned his office to find out if he was there.
Her jaw dropped to the floor when his secretary told her that Trent had left the office hours ago. Tears were streaming down her face... Trent's secrecy could only have one explanation.
Bank Account
Cindy felt heartbroken. She didn't know what to do with this information.
Cindy wanted some support, so she pulled out her phone to call her mother. However, she saw a strange notification about her bank account. She knew that their joined bank accounts would show some evidence if Trent was having an affair. What she saw made her jaw drop to the floor.
Bad Memories
She could not believe it. Over $5000 was gone from their account. In addition to acting suspicious, Trent was using the wedding funds to fund his affair.
She was furious. She couldn't help but think of what her father's dishonesty did to her family, and now the same thing was happening with her and Trent. She was ready to confront him, but as soon as she picked up the phone, the door opened.
Sick Dog
“Where were you?” Cindy asked furiously. After Trent, Izanagi walked in. He stared at the dog before returning his gaze to Cindy.
“It’s Izanagi,” he said with tears filling his eyes. “He was diagnosed with cancer about three weeks ago. I have been combing the city for a doctor.” Trent said as he sat down on the couch. “I didn't want to worry you with any of this.” He looked hopeless as he rest his head in his hands. He gave Cindy one more look before he started sobbing uncontrollably.
Her Tongue Is Like A Blade
Cindy looked at Izanagi, seeing brown bandages that ran around the dog’s body. But her fury did not subside. Trent hid this from her, making financial decisions without including her.
“Five thousand dollars meant for our wedding? Trent, it’s just a dog!” Cindy screamed. Trent’s eyes widened. “Just a dog?” His lips shook. He clenched his fists.
Who Is Wrong?
Trent stood and took a step back. He scrubbed a hand down his face and walked away. Cindy remained in the living room with Izanagi. “Izanagi,” she whispered, but the dog whined at her and limped after Trent.
Cindy looked in the direction they went, wishing she could take back her words. This was about trust, not money. She should have followed him to talk it out, but she did not. This sprouted another colossal problem.
A New Divide
The night passed as quietly as it had started. In the morning, Trent did not dress up for work. He made breakfast as usual and sat across the table from Cindy.
“You are selfish,” he said calmly. His words cut deep through Cindy, but she would not let Trent see this. “That dog, as you call it, Cindy, is my brother. He is my dog.” He got up, egging Izanagi to join him. “We are leaving.”
Consequences
Cindy sat alone in the apartment after Trent and Izanagi left. Even though they didn’t pack any bags, Cindy was unsure if they were coming back.
A crippling ache fired through her, from her legs into her heart. Her stomach pained, her mind ran numb. Cindy tried calling Trent, but her call went straight to voicemail. But as she sat down, defeated, her phone buzzed on the carpet. It was Trent.
Let’s Talk
“I am sorry,” he said before she could speak. “I should have told you about this. Please forgive me. We are a team. I hope we stay like that.”
Cindy could not speak, she wanted to tell him how much she cared for Izanagi, but words failed her. “Come home, please,” she whispered, smiling amid tears. Poor communication wouldn't cost her her marriage as it did with her parents.