“Divorce papers,” she said. “You can sign them, or not. Either way, I’m done.” Evan’s lips parted like he wanted to protest, to reach for something familiar. But he didn’t. He just nodded, defeated, and turned toward the door.
At the threshold, he hesitated. “Clara… I never meant to hurt you.” She smiled faintly. “That’s the thing about meaning to, Evan. It doesn’t change the outcome.” When the door closed behind him, she stood there for a long time, letting the quiet settle.