With nowhere else to turn, Emily finally made her way across town to Neno's house. The door swung open before she even knocked.
"I knew it," Neno said, her arms wrapping around Emily immediately. "I knew that bastard would throw you out one day."
EMILY (tears welling in her eyes, sobbing against Neno):
"Why... why is he doing this to me? I've been nothing but faithful, nothing but good to him and the boys... And now I'm just... discarded. Like I don't even matter anymore."
Neno pulled her inside, closing the door behind them. She led Emily into the living room, guiding her to the couch.
NENO (gently, but with a fire in her eyes):
"Listen to me, Em. That man and your sons—they don't deserve you. You've spent your whole life putting them first, and look where it's gotten you. They've forgotten about you already. They'll be fine without you. But you? You're not just 'Emily Wilson.' You're awoman who deserves to live her own life, not just be someone's wife or mother."
Emily wiped her eyes, her hands shaking as she looked at her best friend. She had never felt more lost, more alone—but Neno's voice, steady and firm, was like a lifeline. Neno was right. She had been putting everyone else first for so long, but now, perhaps it was her turn.