I walked over with wine.

“Let’s make a toast,” I said.

The room quieted.

“To Derek,” I said, smiling. “For showing me exactly what I deserve.”

Confusion spread.

“And to Nicole—for the clarity.”

I paused.

“I’m moving out tonight.”

Silence.

Derek froze. “What?”

“Just being mature,” I said.

I addressed the room calmly.

“A mature person knows when they’re not valued. And leaves.”

“You’re embarrassing yourself,” he snapped.

“No,” I said. “I’m embarrassing you.”

I turned to Nicole.

“He’s all yours.”

Then I walked out.

The Exit

In the bedroom, Derek tried to stop me.

“You’re overreacting.”

“No,” I said. “I’m finally reacting correctly.”

He grabbed my arm lightly.

“Don’t do this.”

“Let go.”

He did.

I walked out for good.

Aftermath