Page 21 of My Husband’s Wife

Twenty

It’s nearly ten thirty at night. The wedding reception is in full swing.

The cake has been cut, the first dance was superb and the family is now in a merry state on the dance floor doing the Macarena.

I hoped to have a few moments with Madison this morning but I struggled to find her.

I didn’t even see her leave. It had been a shock seeing her.

I had to go outside and get some air and when I returned, she was gone.

When she was cutting my hair on Thursday, we chatted and she was friendly.

Today, it was as if I didn’t know her. I wonder if she suspects it was me who called Theo’s number the other night.

I breathe out and catch the sight of the bar manager.

He gives me the nod which means I can finally leave.

My feet are throbbing after being on them all day.

I give Millie a wave. She lifts up her wedding gown and staggers towards me. Her face has reddened and her make-up has long gone but she’s happy. ‘Eva, I just want to say thank you. I’ve had an amazing day and also thank you for keeping me sane.’ She throws her arms around me, and I hug her back.

‘It’s been an absolute pleasure.’

Millie nods to Deepak, who walks over to the cake and places a huge chunk in a bag before coming over. Millie takes it from him. ‘Have some cake,’ she slurs.

I thank her and take the cake. After saying goodbye, I’m in my car and ready to leave the Sea Horse Hotel, and I’m going to have the mother of all lie-ins in the morning.

I check my phone. Mum messaged to say that she’d ordered a pizza for her and the boys, and that they were now asleep.

I know Mum will be in bed now, so I won’t message back.

It’s dark and dreary tonight. Reaching around the back of my head, I grab a few strands of hair and gently tug, relishing the moment before the follicles pop out of my scalp.

I wince, realising I pulled too many in one go.

I can feel a thin trickle of blood which I rub vigorously in the hope that it’ll scab.

Instead of turning right to go home, I turn left. The truth is within reach and I have to go and find it.