The Silent Wife’s Million Dollar Revenge

Ten years into my marriage, my multi-millionaire husband became fixated on the new company assistant.

She was nearly forty, less striking than I, and certainly not as meticulously maintained, yet in three short months, she had injected a fierce, brand-new emotional vitality into Rhys.

He looked at me, exhaustion etched across his face, and said:

You can have the real estate and the shares if we separate. Audrey, can you please just let me go?

I raised my eyes and replied softly, All right.

Then I tore a small square from a sticky note and drew a star on it.

Divorce Countdown: 30 days.

1

I handed Rhys the divorce agreement a mere twenty-eight minutes after he confessed his affair and asked for a separation.

As agreed, the mansion, the luxury cars, and our daughter would all be mine.

He would pay me a one-time settlement and child support of $30 million.

After that, neither I nor our daughter would contact him again.

Rhys was in the middle of a video conference. He glanced up, his eyes catching the words DIVORCE SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT, and his lashes gave the faintest, almost imperceptible tremor.

He lifted his chin, signaling that he understood.

I slipped out of the study.

To expedite his departure, I had packed all of Rhyss personal belongings. Five massive suitcases in total. Concerned about forgetting anything, I even carefully tucked away the commendations hed earned during his college years, stored deep in the utility room.

My gaze finally rested on the framed wedding photo in the corner.

In the picture, Rhyss eyes were focused only on me, and my expression was one of shy devotion. We were clasped in a tight embrace beneath the canopy of an old oak tree.

Back then, he would hold me and whisper sweet words: Honey, Ill always love you.

The luckiest moment of my life was marrying you.

Rhys and I met in graduate school. He was a struggling student back then, wearing faded corduroy and threadbare sweaters. I had plenty of suitors, but I fell for Rhys instantly. He was brilliant, ambitious, and handsome. He possessed every virtue I could count.

After graduation, we married seamlessly, and he and his partners founded their company. To support his endeavor, I stepped back from my own career. I dedicated myself to caring for Rhys and managing our home.

As the business grew, Rhyss travel and networking became increasingly frequent. I maintained my yoga and skincare routine between the grocery runs and the housework. And Rhys never truly slacked off. Even when exhausted, he would come home, help Willow with her homework, and sometimes even load the dishwasher, helping me navigate family and neighbor relations.

To outsiders, we were a perfect couple, the model of a successful marriage.

I cant pinpoint when Rhys started scheduling his trips for the weekends. Sometimes hed be gone for entire weeks, a continuous blur. My friend, Ava, would often joke, urging me to keep a closer watch, warning me about possible changes. Id assure her I wasnt worried, but my gut would tighten.

Id delivered documents to Rhyss office a few times. Everything seemed normal. His team was busy working late, and the woman in question was busy at her desk.

Her name was Sienna. Nearly forty, not stunning, and dressed plainly. She had soft, long, wavy hair and spoke with a gentle, almost Southern drawl. She politely offered me tea.

I had imagined this scenario over the years. I thought it might be a sharp, powerful female director, a glamorous intern, or maybe a cool, high-profile client. I never once considered his assistant.

Id heard she was newly single after a long-term relationship ended due to infidelity. This was her first job back, and she was exceptionally dedicated. She volunteered for overtime, remembered everyones coffee order, and often brought in homemade gourmet cookies. Some colleagues, for convenience, even asked her to run errands for them.

When I found out, I told Rhys she sounded hardworking and suggested he look out for her.

Rhys was typically nonchalant. The workplace isnt about favors. Ive already warned her not to engage in personal transactions.

Back then, I laughed, thinking my husband was just a stereotypical, rigid boss. Now, I realize he was likely protecting Sienna, worried about her having to run errands after working late.

As for why Rhys chose today to confess?

It was simply because, as was my routine, I had prepared him a light, late-night soup after a business function.

He stared at the bowl, frowned slightly, gently pushed it away, and remained silent for a long time.

He then looked up at me, his eyes drained of warmth, and asked if we could divorce.

He admitted the affair had been going on for three months. He'd met her during his "travels."

My heart felt as if it had been pricked by a thousand needles, but I forced myself to maintain my composure. I asked who it was.

When he said Sienna, I genuinely thought I had misheard.

A dizzying sensation of numbness and sharp pain spread through my limbs.

2

By the time Rhys finished his meeting, I had completed my yoga routine, ironed a few items, and was sitting on the balcony arranging flowers. I looked as if nothing had happened.

He went to change and, finding his closet empty, called out to me from the dressing room, out of habit.

Honey, where are my shirts?

I didn't turn around. Theyre all packed in the suitcases. If you dont mind, wear yesterdays. Its going to be thrown out soon anyway.

I was met with a long, heavy silence.

When Rhys emerged, he saw the five large suitcases stacked by the entryway. He sat down beside me and tapped the divorce agreement with his fingertip.

Ill transfer $20 million of the settlement now; the rest will be in installments

I cut him off. That wont be necessary. Lets finalize it all at once.

I doubt she wants you to maintain any contact with me.

Rhyss expression was one of confusion. Our daughter isnt yours alone. I have a responsibility to be involved in her life.

I know Im wrong, and Im willing to compensate, but dont use Willow as leverage.

I put down the pruning shears and looked Rhys squarely in the eye.

Cheating was your choice. Your compensation and support are a given. Considering your net worth, the house and cars are not a greedy request.

Willow has always had me by her side. She is emotionally sensitive and needs attention. How much energy can you dedicate to her during your new relationship? Involvement isnt just about money; it requires time and patience.

Rhys was rendered speechless. After a moment, he said, In any case, I wont buy out my relationship with my daughter for $30 million.

I reached out and flipped the agreement open. $30 million is the settlement and support. If you have extra emotional needs, you can transfer money to her account; I will open one specifically for her.

Rhys suddenly scoffed. Audrey, I never knew you cared so much about money. Everything you say is about money.

What else? Is loving you proving useful?

Rhys was silenced. His face darkened, and he quickly signed the divorce agreement. He arranged for us to file the petition tomorrow.

Then, he called a car service.

I finished arranging the flowers and went to bed.

He was gone when I woke up early.

Willow burst out of her room and hugged me, excitedly telling me about her dream of going to Disneyland. As she spoke, I carefully told her that Daddy was busy with a project and might be traveling for a while.

Unusually, she didn't throw a fit. Instead, she video-called him and asked, "Daddy, when are you coming home?"

Ill be busy for a while.

She simply mumbled, "Okay," and pursed her lips. "It's fine. Having Mommy with me is enough."

I crumbled immediately, tears welling up, and I used the excuse of tidying the kitchen to hide them.

My agreement to the divorce stemmed from pain, but mostly from guilt toward my daughterguilt over not being able to give her a complete home. Yet, I knew that this brokenness was not my fault.

After dropping Willow off at school, Rhys and I went to file the application. The cooling-off period was 30 days, after which we could finalize the divorce.

Back in the car, I drew a star on the sticky note, marking the day.

Divorce Countdown: 30 days.

3

I hesitated about whether to tell my parents immediately. I grew up in this city, and all my family and friends are here. My parents are retired doctors, and I am their only child. They are open-minded, but my mothers blood pressure hasn't been stable lately.

I planned to delay it, but two days later, Rhys called.

He rarely called; usually, he texted because I always responded instantly, which he considered efficient. But I had deleted his number last night.

I answered. Rhys's tone was normal.

Audrey, your mother just called. She made soup and wants us to come over for dinner.

Your moms blood pressure is high maybe we should wait until shes more stable to tell her about the divorce. What time works for you? Also, next Friday is her birthday. I should still go with you.

His words instantly resolved my hesitation. I decided to be blunt. I replied, That wont be necessary.

Rhys said, Dont pretend to be strong. Your parents health is important.

I said coolly, If you truly cared, you wouldnt have cheated and filed for divorce right now. My mother has high blood pressure, but shes not confused. I doubt she wants me to maintain a broken marriage.

Rhys.

What is it?

Dont contact me again. Visits with Willow will be according to the agreementtwice a month.

At this, Rhyss tone turned cold. Audrey, Im saying this one more time: Willow is my daughter. She is my family

But you were the one who broke her home, werent you?

I heard Rhys loudly slam down the phone. I hung up immediately, taking a moment to calm my churning emotions.

I drove straight to a home furnishings store. I bought new curtains, new bedding, and replaced every decorative item Rhys preferred in the house. Everything had to be delivered the same day.

After the house was scrubbed clean and transformed, I drove to my parents house. My father saw I was alone and assumed Rhys was busy.

I was silent for a moment, then softly said, Dad.

He noticed the abnormality instantly, putting down his newspaper and watching me quietly. He then gently patted my back. I didn't say anything, but my father understood my suppressed pain and hurt.

I narrated the story as calmly as I could. My father handed me a warm washcloth to wipe my face. His voice was gentle.

Its okay. Divorce isnt shameful now. He didnt treasure you; he betrayed you. Its better to leave sooner rather than later.

Audrey, I only have one request.

His eyes were slightly red as he squeezed my hand. Since youve decided to separate, never look back, no matter what.

I nodded, choking up. I wont.

After dinner, my parents talked in the study for a long time. When my mother emerged, she pressed a thick check into my hand. She said today was a new beginning and worth celebrating.

May my precious daughter find happiness and freedom from now on.

I cried for a long time in the car after leaving my parents house. Before coming, I was so afraid of disappointing them. They have been fiercely devoted to each other their entire lives. When everyone questioned my choice to marry Rhys, they said they trusted me. Now that Rhys was successful and praised by everyone, they calmly supported my decision to divorce.

I wiped my tears and looked at the note.

Divorce Countdown: 28 days.

4

When I picked up Willow from school, she said her grandmother had called and missed her, asking if she could stay for a few days. She asked me to take her over.

I paused, then took her home to pack her small backpack. She was ecstatic, saying her grandmother promised to teach her how to knit a scarf.

After dropping her off, my father walked me to the car. Audrey, try to be happy. Go out and clear your head.

As I got into the car, my father stood there watching me, reluctant to go inside. I glanced at the rearview mirror and saw how haggard and somber I looked.

I returned home, packed a suitcase, and traveled for a week, quickly moving through several cities, witnessing many stories along the way. I returned looking much better.

I checked the note. Divorce Countdown: 21 days.

5

I returned just in time for my mothers birthday. They held a small gathering for close family and friends at a hotel.

Many people asked about Rhys. Thankfully, Willow had a dance class and wasn't with me.

My parents evaded the questions. Just before the meal began, my mother went up to the small stage to give a toast. Thats when Rhys arrived.

He wore a custom suit, carrying several gift boxes and a thick envelope. Friends and family greeted him.

He waited for my mother to step down and handed her the envelope. Mom, happy birthday.

My mother glanced at it coolly. Mr. Caldwell, thats too kind. We wont accept your money. After all, you and Audrey are divorced. We wouldnt want you to spend unnecessarily.

Rhyss expression froze instantly. A stunned silence fell over the guests, but they quickly resumed their low-level chatter.

He whispered, Were still in the cooling-off period

My mother waved her hand. It makes no difference. She then turned to usher everyone to the tables.

Rhys stood rigid, clutching the gift bag. My father politely returned the other presents. Rhys didn't stay; he turned and left.

Once he was gone, the friends and family, with mutual understanding, never mentioned Rhys again. No one would ask me about him in the future.

It was a good sign.

My heart gradually calmed. I was adapting, processing, and shedding the title of Mrs. Caldwell. I was simply Audrey now.

Even the security guards and property management at our building, somehow catching wind of the news, stopped calling me Sister-in-law, opting for Ms. Audrey instead.

I quickly immersed myself in work, planning to open a floral design studio. A suitable storefront was available for leasethe dcor and location were perfectso I signed the contract immediately. I kept the existing staff but planned to adjust the floral style, refresh the window displays, and tentatively open for a soft launch.

After a full day working on the design plans at the shop, I prepared to head home.

I looked at the sticky note in my car.

Divorce Countdown: 15 days.

6

Just as I arrived home, a young woman from Rhyss company named Lexi messaged me. She was cheerful, friendly, and well-liked.

She asked if I was busy, and when I confirmed I was free, she immediately complained, asking if the rumors about Rhys and me divorcing were true.

I didn't deny it.

She asked if it was because of Sienna.

I didn't answer, sensing Rhys might have made the affair public.

Seeing my silence, Lexi wailed.

Oh my gosh, Ms. Audrey, it is because of that woman! No wonder you havent brought in your amazing pastries lately!

I miss them so much!

When Rhys and I were together, I brought in desserts almost every week as a thank you. Some colleagues even joked theyd stay at the company forever just for my baking.

Dont worry. Im about to open a flower shop. You come visit, and Ill send you home with a custom bouquet.

Lexi cheered and immediately asked for the address. I told her Id send it later.

She agreed, then continued her rant.

You have no idea about Sienna. Since you stopped coming, she went straight from assistant to Administrative Lead, and her attitude toward everyone has completely changed.

She used to smile at everyone; now she nitpicks everything. She cant even hide how smug she is. And she bought the exact same designer dress and bag as you! Everyone can see what shes doing. What is Rhys even thinking?

She concluded that if it werent for her car payment, shed quit; she couldn't stand being under Sienna's thumb.

I pulled into the driveway and, seeing Lexi was still chatting, offered a few words of comfort before she reluctantly hung up.

By now, I had no desire to know the details of Siennas actions. It wasn't like the night Rhys confessed, when I obsessively wanted to know what kind of magic she possessed.

I pushed the front door open and was surprised to see Rhyss sneakers by the door. He was playing with Willow, building Legos.

Willow saw me and shouted excitedly, Mommy, come here! Play with us! Lets see who can build faster!

Before, Rhys would always lift Willow and spin her around, then pull me into a hug. The house would be filled with laughter.

Now, Rhys just cleared his throat and patted Willows head. Mommys been busy and is tired. Maybe next time, sweetie?

Okay. Daddy, when will you stop traveling?

Rhys thought for a moment and said softly, As soon as possible, before ushering Willow to the bathroom to wash up.

After a long day at the flower shop, I had no energy to deal with him. I simply reminded him to lock the door when he left.

He said he had promised Willow he would stay and sleep in her room tonight.

I didn't argue.

I closed my bedroom door.

I heard Rhyss phone ring in the living room. He answered, repeating a few simple responses. Finally, his voice dropped, laced with slight impatience.

I told you Im just here for Willow. What are you worried about? Weve already signed the agreement! How many times do I have to explainwere sleeping in separate rooms!

Then I heard Rhys hang up abruptly.

He came and knocked on my door.

Audrey, an urgent matter came up at the office. I have to leave. Ill make time to come back for Willow tomorrow.

I didn't open the door. I simply called back, "Fine." The volume was just loud enough for Rhys to hear outside the door.

Before he even reached the main gate, I received a text notification: $8,000 had been deposited into Willow's account. The memo read: For new dresses with Mommy.

Ignoring the text, I opened my laptop to work on the flower shop plan. However, a message popped up from an unknown number.

No text, just a single smiley face emoji. The profile picture was a blurry photo of a beach; the background was blank, and there was no content on their feed. I didn't even remember when I added this person. Checking the chat history, the last message was two years ago.

As I was trying to recall, she sent a single sentence.

[You must be very pleased with yourself, aren't you?]

The realization was instantaneous. I guessed this was Sienna.

But Sienna had only been at the company for half a year. Why did she have my number from two years ago?

Could it be that this account has been silently watching my daily life for almost two years?

I sucked in a sharp breath. I replied with a question mark.

The other side typed quickly.

[No matter what you do to hold onto him, I can make him come back to me instantly.]

It was her. Sienna.

Did this mean Rhys had known Sienna for two years? Perhaps even longer?

Sienna sent a photograph. I opened it and saw Rhys, shirtless, asleep in a hotel bed, a womans hand draped over his waist. The date stamp in the lower right corner read: 2023.5.20.

I stared at the picture. My stomach churned, and a wave of nausea rose in my throat. I gagged violently into the waste bin.

May 20, 2023.

That was the day my mother was in the hospital for her major check-up. Rhys had been incredibly busy all of May, constantly traveling for conferences. To rush back and be with me, he compressed his schedule. He spent the entire night on the phone, gently reassuring me, telling me not to be afraid. Because I was anxious and couldn't sleep, Rhys stayed on the line all night.

He finally made it back in the early hours of May 20th and waited outside the exam room with me.

Yet, on that same day, in the midst of his 'busyness,' he found time to be with Sienna.

How did he manage to return and face me with such an easy conscience?

Seeing I hadn't responded, Sienna became bolder. She sent several more photos, all marked with dates.

Our wedding anniversary.

Willows birthday.

Every single time, he first spent time with Sienna, then rushed back to be with us.

An intense wave of pure disgust washed over me, drowning out the pain.

Yes. I had initially thought Rhys was just tired of us after three months. Tired of our simple, cozy life. Or maybe hed found "true love" in middle age.

It turned out hed been rotten for much longer.

I splashed cold water on my face in the bathroom. I returned to my computer and saved every piece of evidence.

I knew Sienna dared to send these because the $30 million settlement hadnt been fully paid yet. Rhys had transferred 0-02 million over the past two weeks, but 0-08 million was still pending, which he said he needed time to arrange. The properties and cars were already in my name, unencumbered; since hed agreed, there was no dispute.

If I created a scene now, it would damage Rhyss business. He would be furious, and I would lose more than I gained. Our daughter would also lose her father.

When Rhys asked for the divorce, he might have expected me to break down and fight. But given my focus on maintaining composure, he knew I wouldn't cause a scene at his office.

What Sienna didnt anticipate was how readily I agreed. I didnt fight, and I didnt even confront Rhys. This was outside her expectation. She knew that whoever caused a scene first would lose.

But one thing was odd. Sienna had managed to stay by Rhyss side and remain hidden for so long, even successfully playing the role of the harmless new assistant for six months. Why was she suddenly so impatient?

In just two more weeks, Rhys and I would be completely separated. Yet, she had a meltdown just because Rhys came home once to spend the night with his daughter.

I checked the time. It wasn't too late. I called Lexi.

She was having a late dinner with department colleagues and gossiping about Rhys and Sienna. They were exchanging information.

I learned a few new things.

Last week, Rhys had too much to drink at a corporate event and was driven home by a beautiful female CEO from a partner company. Since then, the CEO had privately asked Rhys out a few times.

Coupled with my two-week absence from the office with my pastries, everyone was guessing Rhys and I had fought. They suspected he would soon be single again.

Once the rumor spread, several ambitious young women began openly showing interest in Rhys.

Thats when Sienna lost her composure.

Ms. Audrey, youre so kind; I hate to tell you this, and please dont be sad, but while Rhys is great, hes a total jerk.

Youll definitely meet someone better! Wait, scratch that. Who needs men? Ms. Audrey, youre going to crush it with your business, your flower shop will boom, and then you can find a man! Haha.

Lexis honesty made my low mood lift.

Thank you. Im working on it.

I hung up, noting the time. It was past midnight. The reminder on the sticky note was stark.

Divorce Countdown: 14 days.

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