The Birthday They Kneeled

Summary

Three years post-college, my ex Lena messaged: "Pathetic loser, come kiss ass at my father-in-law's gala." Married into Crestview's wealthiest family, she never missed a chance to rub it in.

I deleted it, indifferent.

That evening, my wife Raina tossed a gold-trimmed box aside. "The Fairfaxes sent another 'priceless' heirloom," she sighed. "Too trivial for us, but they’ll only accept your return."

Her lips grazed my ear: "I’ll reward you tonight..."

As she left, Lena texted again: "Ethan Place, answer me! Coming or not?!"

I eyed the discarded box. "I’ll be there."