’I need to talk to you right now.’ I said, my demanding tone leaving no room for delay. With purpose, I strode toward Renee’s bedroom.

She closed the door behind her, concern on her face. ’What’s wrong?’

’Kate kissed me today at work.’ I blurred out.

Her eyes widened. And I could practically hear the gears of her mind grinding to a halt, struggling to process what I had just said. And then, like a storm gathering on the horizon, anger began to flicker in her eyes. A dark cloud seemed to pass over her features, her brows furrowing and her jaw clenching as shock transformed into a seething fury. ’Who the fuck is Kate?’

’The DP. I didn’t kiss her back; I told her to fuck off.’ I hastily explained. ’But it doesn’t matter. For you maybe it does right now, but trust me, it doesn’t matter.’

’Did she or didn’t she kiss you?’

’Yes but–’

’A fucking DP!’ She slammed the door of Renee’s antique wardrobe forcefully, her voice fierce. ’You expect me to believe that she came to work today, shot some esthetic scenes and while doing so, her Go-Pro caught a glimpse of my wife. And at that very moment she thought, with all her technical know-how and artistic eye for beauty, that’s it, let’s kiss Tina today.’

I held my hands up to de-escalate, to fend-off the storm. I needed her to hear me out. ’I told her I love you Bette.’

The turmoil in her eyes held strong, her teeth grinding together audibly in frustration as if she hadn’t heard me. ’Don’t make a fool out of me, these things don’t just happen. I want to know what happened!’ She hissed.

’And I want you to pack your suitcases and come the fuck home. Tonight!’ My voice matched her intensity. ’I’m sick of this ridiculous arrangement, like we’re having some kind of affair or whatever the fuck this is. We’re married for christ sakes. Come home.’

’What happened?’ She practically spelled the words as her nostrils flared.

’Listen to me. You will bring your clothes back, take a shower in our bathroom and lie on your side of the bed, committed to spending the night.’ I reached out, my fingers grasping her chin, demanding her to look at me. ’I need you Bette. Don’t you see it? I need you to make me whole again. God knows I can’t do it alone. Do you understand?’ I turned away, leaving her stunned. ’Ridiculous.’ I mumbled picking up my purse on my way out. ’Bye Renee. See you tomorrow.’