Stupid Wife - Remake (Camren)

Shared pain (9)

Camila Cabello's Point Of View

"How are really things between you?"

I hear my father's question. I look away from the scene in front of me. My mother and Lauren are in the kitchen; in a lively and relaxed conversation. They get along super well, and I wonder all the time what she did to win Sinu over this way. Not that it's hard to captivate my mother, but having her full approval is not an easy feat.

"What?"

My dad flashes a smile. We are sitting at the table, a few feet away from where they are preparing a snack.

"I asked how things are between you and Lauren. And I want the truth."

"Hm..." I shift in my chair. I feel uncomfortable with this question. "We're being... sociable."

"Sociable?" He raises an eyebrow. His voice conveys the curiosity he's feeling.

I don't understand the inquisition, but I think my dad just wants to see us getting along well again. Well, being friendly isn't hard.

"Uh, yes." I glance at her. Lauren is smiling as my mom tells her something. I have no idea what it is, but it seems to make her happy. A small smile appears on my face. "She really has changed."

"You don't even realize..."

"What?" I face my father, and he shakes his head, letting out a chuckle. I'm confused and I don't understand his reaction.

"Nothing. But I'm glad things are less bad. It's good for both of you and for my grandson. He really worships the mothers he has, it wouldn't be good at all to witness the two of you fighting and divorcing." Dad looks forward, towards them. I do the same. Mom and Lauren look like longtime friends who get along very well. A small smile appears on my lips again. It's an involuntary act. "Do you know how many times I felt like divorcing your mother?"

"None?"

"Several times." He answers immediately. I widen my eyes in surprise, I'd even say in shock. I always thought that my parents' marriage was perfect. Like in those romantic comedy movies, you know? When the couples stay together no matter what happens and never think of divorce. "So many times that if I had counted them, you'd be shocked by the number."

"But... you love each other..."

"I didn't say otherwise, mija. I love your mother in a way I'd never be able to love another person. I'm capable of everything for her."

"And yet there were times you wanted to divorce her?"

I'm horrified to say the least. I can't imagine a world where my parents are not together. I know I sound like a spoiled brat who doesn't accept things any other way, but I just can't picture the two of them divorced. It seems very surreal.

My dad lets out a long sigh and gets up from his chair. I stare at him, reactionless. He grins and extends his hand; a sign for me to get up too. Confused and curious, I obey, and he guides us through my house.

"Marriages are like a contract. And contracts are broken every day. You can love someone very much and still prefer not be with them. Things aren't always the way we want them to be."

"I don't understand."

We reached the backyard. The weather today is nice and a light breeze messes my hair. I cross my arms, we're standing next to the beautiful pool. This conversation is making me more confused than anything.

"Just because your mother and I love each other doesn't mean we can't think about the possibility of getting a divorce. She herself has admitted that she thought about it a few times, just like I did. A marriage is made of phases, and not all of them are good. Only love doesn't hold a relationship, you understand?"