Victor had always prided himself on being clever — the kind of man who could bend reality, twist truth into an elegant lie no one would question. For months, he had perfected his double life with meticulous care. Each fabricated business trip was backed by forged documents, plausible excuses, and rehearsed stories. His colleagues believed him. His wife, Clara, was growing suspicious, but he thought he’d outsmarted her — until this latest plan, his supposed masterpiece: a forged “business authorization” to Miami tucked in his briefcase, and a travel voucher for two to Hawaii stashed in his car, bearing both his and his mistress’s names.
Victor moved through the motions of packing with practiced ease. Clara watched from the doorway, a faint, almost imperceptible smile on her lips. Calm, collected, composed — but beneath it simmered hurt, betrayal, and a determination that lent her strength. She had suspected Victor’s infidelities for months, but tonight felt different. Tonight, she wouldn’t just endure the lies. Tonight, she would strike.
