A Park Affair: Part 4 Changing Perspective by r a wallace. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories. Chapter 9: Wendy I was lost in my thoughts as I waited on the park bench. Despite all that had happened here I found the park offered me a glimpse of what could be- parents with children, people walking dogs, laughter, and couples holding hands. When I saw Robb approach I felt the weight of the world come off my shoulders. His off-beat question made me laugh, it was the perfect introduction. “This may be your lucky day, Sir. It just so happens I require coffee frequently, though if anything, I’m addicted to weird men. Weird mind you, not strange.” “That does seem peculiar, weird, rather than strange. I’m not sure I know the difference.” “I think it would be worth discussing over a hot cup of coffee,” I quipped. “Indeed.” We started walking toward the coffee shop two blocks away. “So, how has your day gone?” he inquired pleasantly. “It’s been pretty good. I’m caught up on my files, and the new one they gave me looks interesting. So, work is good. I called my lawyer and told him I want action, no more waiting for something to happen.” “Sounds like a good day,” he offered. I smiled. “The best part was finding a man who would buy me coffee and keep me company for a while.” “Hmmm, sounds as if it has been a productive day, does the guy know you favor your coffee black?” “Yes, I wonder what else he knows about me?” I giggled, which wasn’t like me. “Oh, I think he loves your smile and that little dimple that shows up when you do- it makes his day. He likes your wavy black hair that frames your beautiful brown eyes. He knows you’re smart and vulnerable, but you’re willing to advocate for yourself, those kinds of things. He also thinks you’re stronger than you give yourself credit for.” “Does he think I’m emotionally unstable?” I asked cautiously. He stopped walking, gently took my arm, and looked at me, “He thinks you’re brave, resilient, angry, in pain, and want to be treated with respect and dignity. He thinks you’re capable and willing to move your life forward at your own pace. He knows it takes time to get over some things and will give you all the time needed to find your way. He knows you’re honest and that he can trust you. Unstable no, in transition, yes.” We started walking again and I felt tears come to my eyes. It felt good knowing someone actually understood me and the uncertainty that surrounded me. Clara had tried to console me, but some of the things she said, though well intended, told me she really didn’t appreciate my circumstances. We stopped to cross the street and I glanced at Robb, he took my arm and pulled me onto the grass. “I think you can use a hug.” His arms came around me and I fell into him and closed my eyes. It felt so wonderful simply to be held. The affection warming me, after a minute he asked if I wanted to keep going. I nodded my head and mumbled I was. When we parted he was looking at me, his eyes were so caring. He took his hand and moved a few stray hairs from my cheek. “Where’s the smile I came to see? A smile makes you glow, it brings out the wonderful woman I know is hiding behind those teary eyes.” I couldn’t help but laugh a little, he made me feel good about myself. “It’s here for you,” I said smiling. _ Wendy Two weeks later my lawyer called to say my husband had signed the divorce papers and he was filing them at the courthouse. “So, I’m free?” “Your marriage is dissolved and you are free to lead your life as you wish,” he replied. Only the financial dealings had to be completed and I would receive half of our marital assets. It was done, I was single again. I thanked him and told him to send me the final bill. That way the ordeal was over once and for all. I hung up and felt a weight come off my shoulders. I can’t say I was euphoric at the news, but it was liberating. That part of my life was history and now I could look to the future. The next thing I did was pick up my phone and send a