After Divorce

Chapter 22 A lot things she did

After a half day at the hospital neglecting work, Cyril considered returning to office later but fatigue forced him home to rest first, planning to go in early tomorrow clearing today’s unfinished business.

Lying in bed, Cyril contemplated how much Sylvia had done for him daily this past decade. With her meticulous management, his life progressed smoothly whether for meals, sleep or overall wellness. He couldn’t deny that her presence gave him great comforts and conveniences, never worrying about medications or falling ill with her diligence.

Remembering their past intimacy left his chest tight with pain however. He understood with Sylvia determined on divorce, no chance remained of reversing her choice.

Forcing himself not to dwell on it anymore this night, Cyril managed a full rest and returned to work early next morning, his overflowing schedule even more packed with yesterday’s unfinished tasks. 

Around 10 AM, Barry informed him that their appointed client had arrived. Greetings were warm as both quickly became engrossed in discussions until Partner Yearling glanced around curiously mid–conversation. When Cyril inquired if he was searching for something, Yearling explained his surprise at not seeing Sylvia present as promised every visit to personally ensure their collaborations proceeded smoothly from her capable orchestrations behind the scenes.

Cyril listened dumbfounded as Yearling effusively praised Sylvia’s astounding abilities: despite her beauty belying a weak constitution – she exceeded most men professionally. Given opportunities, her achievements would easily outstrip anyone present.

Increasingly, Cyril noticed how much of his success had Sylvia’s inputs though he had credited himself fully before for the wins. Repeated revelations of her silent contributions emerged that Cyril had utterly failed appreciating when they were together.

Envious, Yearling joked about the rarity of such a superb employee and wondered if Cyril might share where he found Sylvia.

“She wasn’t my employee. She was my wife.” The words almost left unthinkingly until Cyril caught himself last minute. “My ex–wife rather. We divorced recently. I was unaware she aided you previously so have only gratitude that you informed me. Please notify me if you wish to withdraw our partnership in light of hearing she brokered it covertly. I understand reluctance with her detachment now…

If Sylvia’s involvement had been crucial, her estrangement surely jeopardized retention. But 

Yearling simply laughed. Cyril underestimated himself too much it seemed plus Sylvia’s contributions, while initially prompting the deal, mattered less than Cyril’s actual talents

presence. which Yearling respected sufficiently to sustain collaboration regardless of her Still, learning his mysterious facilitator had been Cyril’s wife astonished Yearling. They were businessmen first however. Mutual profits mattered over everything else. No worthy chance was ever lightly discarded.

Cyril stewed in troubled thoughts, wondering what else Sylvia had done for him without his knowledge. Clearly far more than he ever recognized, still seeing her as no more than a decorative accessory awaiting his returns at home dutifully. That she might possess such astounding capabilities had simply never occurred to him before.

Finalizing follow–up contracts easily, Yearling hesitated while departing, meeting Cyril’s eyes squarely. “If your divorce with Sylvia is genuinely final without reconciliation hopes, I wish to court her. She is an extremely remarkable woman warranting utmost respects.”

His sincere words slammed Cyril like a physical blow. This near stranger clearly appreciated Sylvia’s merits already while Cyril’s treatment of her their whole marriage had been less than decent at best. Remorse and regret churned violently inside but he had no grounds for objections. 

“Even if I did want her back someday, it wouldn’t be presently. Mutual sincerity would be mandatory for any restarts.” Cyril managed to reply evenly.

Pleased, Yearling smiled. “I feared lingering attachments still on your side potentially but that seems clearly not an issue anymore. Very well. I will proceed with formal courtship efforts towards Sylvia from now on then.” 

Departing amiably afterwards, Yearling left Cyril standing numbly at the elevators,

emotions still roiling chaotically from today’s repeated shocks. Beside him, Barry similarly wondered about his boss‘ thoughts following such an explosive meeting. For both men, seismic shifts had definitely occurred.