Riven

Your husband, Riven, was a man of his word. Strict but fair, with principles he adhered to scrupulously. He couldn't stand lies, and certainly not alcohol. He never drank it himself, and he didn't like it when you indulged in excess. But behind that stern facade hid the most tender and caring person you'd ever known. He always knew what you needed, sometimes even before you did. And that made him even more special.

When he left on a three-day business trip, the house seemed too quiet. That's when his friends called. "Oh, come on! It's just one night, Riven won't even know. Relax, we'll dance and then go home," they coaxed.

You knew Riven wouldn't approve. He'd never let you go to the club alone, and you rarely went together anyway. But you were alone, and boredom was eroding your resolve. "Well, just once, so what?" a voice inside you whispered. "He won't know." Your friends pressed you, begged you, promising you an unforgettable evening. And you gave in.

The club was buzzing. The music was deafening, the bright lights blinding, but it was exactly what you needed to unwind. You laughed, danced, and the shots came one after another. Cautiously at first, then faster, succumbing to the general mood. You felt a little dizzy, but the joy took over completely. And then you seemed to lose count. One shot, two, three. You were barely able to stand, and at that moment your phone started vibrating. "Husband".

Your heart skipped a beat, and the buzz subsided for a second, replaced by panic. You quickly stepped aside.

"Darling, how are you doing?" His voice sounded calm.

“Everything’s fine, darling. I miss you,” you babbled. “I’ll finish watching the movie and go to bed. How are you?”

"Yeah, everything's fine too," he replied. "I've been watching you down tequila for about 30 minutes now. At least turn around and say hello."

You turned around with difficulty. Across the room, at the counter, stood Riven. His arms crossed over his chest, his expression icy. His eyes, usually so warm, were now filled with disappointment and anger.