They dined romantically; but, upon seeing the waiter, the man’s heart ceased to beat. It was his former spouse, the lady he had abandoned, oblivious to the sacrifices she had rendered for him to attain the success he enjoyed today.
Ryan Alden entered the sophisticated, chandelier-adorned restaurant accompanied by his new girlfriend, Vanessa. He wore a meticulously tailored suit, while she grasped his arm, her silver dress glistening beneath the ambient lighting. “Ryan, this venue is ideal,” Vanessa remarked, beaming as they were escorted to their allocated table. Ryan surveyed his surroundings with a sense of pride. He could now afford this type of institution without reservation—one of the most exclusive restaurants in the city. However, as he took a seat, his focus became fixated on an individual across the room. A server, adorned in a modest beige apron, walked silently among the tables, expertly balancing plates. Her face was slightly turned, however when she briefly glanced up, Ryan’s breath was momentarily halted. It cannot be. “Ryan?” Are you well? Vanessa enquired, observing his abrupt immobility. He blinked, compelling a smile. “Indeed, merely…” I believed I recognised someone familiar. However, it was her. Anna. His former spouse. The woman he divorced five years prior when he opted to chase grander aspirations—aspirations that ultimately materialised into millions, expensive vehicles, and high-rise residences. Anna appeared more slender now, her hair secured neatly. She either did not perceive him or was feigning ignorance. She set plates on an adjacent table, acknowledged the visitors with a nod, and departed. Vanessa discussed her forthcoming fashion shoot, oblivious to Ryan’s lack of attention. His thoughts were racing. What is the reason for her employment here? She was expected to be in a more favourable situation. She consistently expressed a desire to teach. She was intelligent. She possessed potential. As he observed Anna taking an order from another table, he discerned an element in her posture—a subtle fatigue, indicative not merely of a prolonged shift but of years of bearing burdens in solitude. Subsequently, that evening… Ryan excused himself to the loo; however, instead of returning to the table, he lingered near the kitchen door. Anna emerged, carrying a tray of glasses. “Anna?” he enquired gently. She became immobile. Gradually, she rotated her head. Her eyes briefly widened before assuming a demeanour of courteous neutrality. “Ryan.” “Do you… work here?” “Affirmative,” she stated succinctly. “May I assist you with anything?” I am occupied. He recoiled at her frigid tone. I was not anticipating encountering you here. I assumed you would be instructing by this time, or— “Life does not always unfold as we intend, Ryan,” she remarked softly, casting her gaze towards the dining hall. “I possess tables to serve.” “Anna, pause.” I was unaware of your struggles. She emitted a brief, acrid laugh. You were unaware of numerous matters. You were preoccupied with constructing your empire to recognise what I sacrificed for you. Ryan had constriction in his chest. “What is your meaning?” However, she did not respond. She pivoted and returned to the kitchen, leaving him in the hallway, tormented by a question he had not previously considered: What had she relinquished for him? Ryan resumed his seat, however he was unable to concentrate on Vanessa’s words. His mind echoed Anna’s statement: “You were unaware of many things.” You were preoccupied with constructing your empire to recognise what I sacrificed for you. Subsequently, that evening, after escorting Vanessa home, Ryan was unable to dispel his discomfort. For years, he had convinced himself that his divorce from Anna was mutual—that she desired an alternative existence. He had never paused to contemplate the hardships she faced while he pursued achievement. The following day, Ryan returned to the restaurant unaccompanied. Anna was present, fastening her apron when he entered. She tensed upon seeing him. “What is your desire, Ryan?” she enquired incisively. “I merely seek comprehension,” he stated. What was your intention yesterday? What did you relinquish for my sake? Anna hesitated, her eyes betraying a pain she was reluctant to reveal. “It is unnecessary for you to be informed.” It is no longer significant. “It is significant to me,” Ryan asserted. “I implore you, Anna.” I require auditory confirmation. For a brief instant, she appeared as though she may depart. However, an element in his tone—or perhaps the fatigue of harbouring the secret—caused her to hesitate. She indicated an unoccupied chair. “You possess five minutes.” Ryan sat, his heart racing. Anna inhaled. “Do you recall your inaugural startup?” The endeavour that nearly faltered prior to its inception? He assented gradually. “Certainly.” I was overwhelmed by debt. I believed I would lose everything. “You would have,” Anna stated softly. “However, I did not permit that to occur.” I sold my grandmother’s house, the sole bequest I possessed, and provided you with the proceeds. I informed you it originated from a loan. You did not pose any enquiries. Ryan experienced a sensation of discomfort in his gut. “Did you provide me with all that you possessed?” “I did,” Anna persisted, her tone unwavering yet imbued with pain. When expenses accumulated, I undertook extra shifts and accepted undesirable positions to ensure you could pursue your aspirations without interruption. I occasionally omitted meals to facilitate payments to your suppliers. I prioritised your future over my own. Ryan experienced a sensation akin to having the breath forcibly expelled from his lungs. “Why did you not inform me?” “You were exceedingly confident,” Anna remarked with bitterness. “So resolute in my pursuit of success that I did not wish to be the impediment hindering your progress.” Upon commencing substantial financial earnings, you had a transformation. You ceased returning home. You ceased to observe me. One day, you informed me that you needed to concentrate on your future, which did not encompass my presence. Ryan recalled the evening he had uttered those comments. At that moment, he had persuaded himself it was for the greater good. It now appeared harsh. Anna averted her gaze. “Subsequent to your departure, I remained responsible for settling your debts as my name was associated with all obligations.” I was unable to complete my education. I accepted whatever employment available—cleaning, serving tables, or any role that would sustain my livelihood. Ryan experienced thoracic discomfort. “Anna…” I was unaware. I assure you I was unaware. She emitted a faint, melancholic laugh. “Certainly, you did not.” You were preoccupied with becoming into the individual you are today. Ryan inclined his body forward. “Allow me to assist you at this moment.” “Allow me to rectify this.” Anna negated with a shake of her head. “I do not desire your financial contribution, Ryan.” I want you to comprehend that your accomplishment was not without cost. Someone financed it—you simply did not recognise that it was I. A prolonged hush ensued. “Do you despise me?” Ryan enquired softly. Anna exhibited reluctance. I do not harbour animosity towards you. I once liked you excessively to ever harbour utter hatred for you. However, I lack confidence in you. I refuse to return to the lady who sacrificed all for a man who failed to acknowledge her. Ryan gulped audibly. I do not anticipate your immediate forgiveness. May I assist in alleviating your burden? “Not from pity—rather from gratitude.” Anna observed him intently for a prolonged period before softly stating, “If you genuinely intend that, refrain from merely writing a cheque.” Engage in meaningful actions. Ryan acquiesced. “Articulate your current priorities.” She surveyed the restaurant. “A scholarship fund exists here for staff members seeking to pursue further education.” I have been accumulating funds to submit my application. If you genuinely wish to assist, contribute to that fund—support more than just me. Ryan had a constriction in his throat. “I shall undertake it.” And Anna, I will ensure you have the opportunity you relinquished for my sake. Anna offered him a faint, weary grin. Thank you. That is all I have ever desired.