The Stolen Relic

Ten years ago, my wife Chloe and I built Innovatech, pouring our lives, and my health, into its foundation.

Now, she was the CEO, thriving, and I was the "kept man," managing our home alone after our son Michael was gone.

Chloe wanted to renew our vows at the lavish Innovatech gala, calling it "good PR" for our shared journey.

At the event, a "tribute" slideshow erased my contributions, making me a public joke, while her young protégé, Liam, presented her with a diamond necklace.

His sneering toast, "Some partnerships are built on strength... Others... well, they serve their purpose," felt like a public execution of my worth.

Later, Liam's Instagram showcased Chloe laughing with him on a yacht next to a cherry-red sports car she bought him, captioned: "#PowerCouple #Blessed."

Devastation hit me, cold and hard, a public declaration of betrayal.

At home, Chloe dismissed my outrage, demanding I apologize to Liam and smashing my tablet when I confronted her with the truth.

Then came the ultimate cruelty: "Maybe if you were stronger, Michael would still be here," she spat, subtly blaming me for our son's tragic death.