The Sound of Silence

On our tenth anniversary, my deaf husband, Ethan, disappeared all morning.

Assuming he was preparing a surprise for me, I joyfully went to the hotel we agreed on.

But what awaited me was his guilt-ridden confession: "I'm sorry, I cheated."

My mind went blank.

The stain of bright red on the sheets stung my eyes.

Ethan rubbed his forehead, looking defeated. "Sarah, this was an accident neither of us wanted. We were both drunk."

His "female bro," Chloe, clutched the duvet tightly, breaking down in tears: "I'm not a virgin anymore. How am I supposed to get married in the future..."