15
Later, my daughters–in–law and I discussed it in our group chat.
Olivia: [Adrian found me. He refuses to divorce. He’s sending me the latest designer jewelry every day. Yesterday, he offered to invest two hundred million in any project I want, just to win me over.】
Maya: 【Don’t tell me you’re falling for it.]
Olivia: [Of course not. But I have to admit, I’m enjoying watching him grovel. I used to be the one chasing him. Now the tables have turned. It’s kind of fun. I think I’ll enjoy it for a few more days. What about you?]
Maya: 【I think it’s a coordinated attack. Jack won’t divorce me either. He keeps showing off his abs at the gym, trying to seduce me with his body.】
Olivia: 【And are you seduced?]
Maya: 【Please. I’ve seen it all. You think he can impress me? Yesterday, I hired two handsome personal trainers. Jack didn’t even get mad. He started competing with them, trying to show off for me. It was hilario- us. I’m going to enjoy this for a bit longer, too.】
Olivia: [What about you, Mom?]
Me: [My sons are still young. You can enjoy their looks or their money. What am I supposed to enjoy about Howard? The fact that he smells like an old man? Or that he forgets to shower?]
Howard was trying his best to win me over, with a fervor he never had when we were young.
But looking at the young, handsome men in my own company, he didn’t stand a chance. Even my thirty–year old secretary provided more emotional support. He brought me coffee when I was thirsty and snacks when was hungry. He opened car doors for me, ironed my suits when I traveled. He replied to my texts instantly and his phone was on for me 24/7. He was better than Howard in every conceivable way.
And I had hired seven assistants just like him.
The way they looked at me, with that fawning respect for their superior… it was intoxicating. It was my daug
9/11
12:47
Chapter 2
hters–in–law’s suggestion.
12.47
“Mom,” they’d said, “hire a few handsome young male assistants. You’ll see. The respect and attention they give you is something no husband can match. The devotion of a subordinate is better than any man who’s
ever pursued you. Power is the best aphrodisiac.”
