The stranger, unfazed as ever, extends his hand to Cory with effortless charm. “Well, I wasn’t expecting my first night out to turn into a public inquisition,” he says with an easy smile, scanning the nosy onlookers. “But, hello, everyone. I’m Victor. But feel free to call me Vic.”

Cory’s laugh is sharp, hollow, dripping with condescension. “Vic, huh? So, you’re just a passing grifter trying to take advantage of simple folks like our Kerry, huh?”

As usual, Cory attempts to belittle me in front of the gathered crowd with a smug smile and condescending tone. He stands there, smirking, enjoying the discomfort his remarks stir up, making it clear he still sees himself as the gatekeeper…of me. His ability to wield passive aggression like a weapon is nothing new. He’s mastered the art of undermining others while keeping his own hands clean. This moment is no different. By painting Vic as an outsider and me the naive local, he not only reinforces his position of power but also attempts to isolate me. He’s trying to make me feel small; making it harder for me to gain any ground in life, to be independent and free of him.

Nevertheless, I fire back, my voice laced with irritation and pride. “The only simple thing about me, Cory Martin, is my ex-husband. And Vic happens to be very accomplished. Thank you very much!”

I silently pray Vic can keep up with the facade I’ve just reinforced. “Oh, really?” Izzy interjects, her curiosity dripping with poorly concealed glee. “What is it you do, Vic?”

Ooh, I’m going to kill Izzy. My best friends are loving this.

Everyone’s prying eyes and eager whispers remind me just how suffocating small-town life can be.

His smile deepens, that devil-may-care glint flashing in his dark eyes. “Actually, I’ve been meaning to introduce myself properly. I’m your new neighbor. Bought the plot next door.” He pauses, savoring the room’s collective inhale. “My full name is Chef Victor Grimes.”

A collective gasp sweeps through the room. I manage to keep my composure, but I’m a whirlwind of emotions inside. “The Chef Vic? The owner of the Grimes Restaurant Empire? You’re a culinary genius!” Someone gushes from the crowd.

I catch Cory’s expression, his face a mask of utter shock, rendering him speechless and demoralized.

Another voice chimes in, breaking his stupor. “And you’re dating our Kerry? Our chaotic little Kerry?”

“Our sweet Kerry?” Another voice chirps as if I’m some hometown mascot.

Geez, is it that hard to believe? Do they actually see me as some simple, timid townie? Did Cory really grind me down so small in everyone’s minds? Did I really allow him to do that to me?