Every Door Had Been Closed
At first, I didn’t understand.
Then Elise began listing everything she had done.
She called my office. Several times. She emailed me. She tried my personal number. She came to the headquarters of my company twice.
The first time, she had taken three home pregnancy tests that morning.
The second time, she was nearly twelve weeks pregnant and carrying an ultrasound photograph inside her purse.
Security never let her upstairs.
“They told me you had given strict instructions that personal visitors were not allowed.”
I stared at her.
Unfortunately, that part was true.
After our separation, I had told my assistant, Tessa Baird, that I wanted a clean break. No unexpected personal calls. No visits from people connected to the divorce. No interruptions.
At the time, I believed I was protecting myself.
Elise continued.
“I called your attorney too.”
“What did he say?”
“He told me communication regarding our divorce had to go through your office. He said he would pass along the message.”
I felt cold.
“He never told me.”
“Nobody told you.”
I rubbed both hands over my face.
“Why didn’t you keep trying?”
Elise looked hurt.
“I did keep trying, Caleb.” Her voice became stronger. “How many closed doors was I supposed to stand in front of before I understood that you didn’t want me there?”
I had no answer.
