The day after my C-section, I had a divorce attorney brought to my hospital room.

The liaison they sent was Marcus's younger sister, Stella.

She stared at me for a long moment, her face cycling through shades of disbelief.

"What are you doing? You gave birth to my brother's baby yesterday."

My voice didn't change.

"Your brother left before I'd even finished delivering. He took Monica to the coast."

"A husband like that — is there any reason to keep him?"

Stella was quiet for a few seconds. Then, loyally, she started making excuses.

"Monica just went through a divorce. She's severely depressed. Marcus is a doctor — he couldn't not check on her."

"He just went to look in on her for a minute. Do you really have to take it this far?"

"The baby just arrived. How can he grow up without a father?"

I met her gaze without expression.

"He has a father. His father just chose not to be there first."

Stella's face went pale. She reached for my hand tentatively.

"Vivian, I know my brother tends to prioritize Monica's needs. But they grew up together — it's a bond from childhood. We all know he loves you. Can't you reconsider?"

I looked at her a moment, then pulled my hand back.

I dialed the attorney's office.

"Your attorney isn't adequate for what I need. I'd like someone else."