Series 32
Facing Oscar directly, Wren said, “Oscar, I’ve given this divorce a lot of thought. I am sure that I want a divorce.”
The resolve in Wren’s expression conveyed that her decision was final, leaving Oscar to silently realize that his words would not sway her.
After a reflective pause, Oscar’s eyes briefly sparkled with a different intent as he said, “If you are resolved to go through with the divorce, I won’t stand in your way. However…” His voice softened. “Could you consider waiting until after my birthday celebration this year? Given my age, it’s uncertain how many more birthday celebrations I can have. Allow me this one joyous occasion this year, will you?”
Wren responded promptly, “Oscar, don’t talk like that. You’re strong and full of life! You have many years ahead of you!”
Oscar gestured dismissively, fatigue etched into his features. “Ah, life’s daily stresses are wearing me out.”
Wren’s heart ached at the sight of his weariness.
A lengthy pause filled the room before Wren finally nodded, saying, “I’ll wait. I promise.”
She recognized that Oscar’s birthday was just a month away, and she preferred not to burden him with her and Alexander’s troubles for a while.
“That’s great! You’ve always been the most considerate, Wren,” Oscar said, nodding with a smile that seemed to carry a hidden layer of intention.
He was secretly convinced that a month was enough time for him to make Alexander and Wren like each other.
After a further conversation about Oscar’s well-being, Wren excused herself from Oscar’s room.
Once back in her own room, she reached for her phone and called Alexander, whose number she still knew by heart.
“Hello,” came Alexander’s deep, resonant voice from the other end of the line.
“Oscar has given his consent for our divorce,” Wren said plainly as soon as Alexander answered.
Alexander paused, surprised.
Oscar had consented to their divorce?
Had Wren really spoken to Oscar about the matter?
Before he could formulate a response, Wren continued, “But Oscar wants us to delay the divorce until after his birthday this year.”
Alexander couldn’t help but laugh at that. “A stalling tactic—Wren, this must be what you want, isn’t it?”
