Ex-Husband's Late Realization

"Signed."

Lilyana slid the document back into my hand, her tone a mix of disdain and caution. "From what Alexander told me, you two tied the knot only because of family pressure. So, with that being said, don't bother coming to see him. He doesn't want anything to do with you."

I stared at the agreement's bright red seal, representing Alexander Vargas's authority, feeling a wave of irony. I opened my mouth, ready to explain that this was the military's divorce agreement...

Suddenly, a thunderous explosion erupted at the edge of the training grounds, followed by the relentless blare of alarms!

"Live ammunition has gone off in the combat zone! Take cover immediately!"

The orderly shooting range descended into chaos instantly! Panic gripped everyone, and crowds surged toward the exits like tidal waves!

Lilyana and I were quickly knocked to the ground by the stampeding crowd!

Countless feet trampled over us, and agony shot through my body. It felt as though my bones were about to shatter. I desperately tried to rise, but it was impossible!

"Alex! Alex! I'm terrified!" Lilyana screamed, her voice piercing through the pandemonium.

"Lily!" Alexander's frantic shout cut through the noise.

I watched as he fought his way through the crowd, and against my better judgment, a flicker of weak hope sparked inside me.

He rushed over, pinpointed Lilyana with precision, and swiftly hoisted her from the ground, cradling her protectively as he raced toward the safety zones without glancing back.

Throughout the chaos, he never looked my way.

"Alexander! Alexander!"

I gathered the last of my strength to call out, my voice swallowed by the cacophony of screams and cries.

He didn't look back.

Just as I was convinced I'd be crushed to death, Alexander unexpectedly returned.

A bright hope flared in my shattered heart.

But then, Alexander hurried to my side, swiftly picked up a small locket from the ground, and left without a second thought.

"Thank goodness! I'm so glad you found it for me."

Lilyana's voice, a mix of laughter and tears, echoed from the safety zone, "It's the first gift you ever gave me! If I lost it, I'd never forgive you!"

Alexander's voice was soft, tinged with residual fear, "Don’t be silly, what's more important—your life or the locket? You’re safe and sound, and that's what matters!"

"I don't care; it's the proof of your love for me!" Lilyana pouted and kissed him.

In that moment, I felt utterly desolate.

To him, his wife of five years, I meant less than a mere locket belonging to Lilyana.

The massive weight of despair and heartache felt like the final stone, crushing me completely.

My vision faded to black, and I lost consciousness entirely.