"This dress isn’t for you, your time is over" the husband mocked. But when he saw his "bimbo" wife..

your years are gone those outfits are not for you laughed her husband as he was getting ready for a party but when he saw his country girl next to his boss he froze the night surrounded the Nelson's home with silence and Iris having put the children to bed was putting their toys back in place the soft light from the night lamp illuminated the nursery giving the room a cozy feel she approached Gregory's bed tucked him in with a blanket and gently fixed his hair on his forehead good night my little one she whispered smiling as

if Gregory could hear her then she did the same with gwenth kissed her on the cheek and believing it would bring good luck quietly left the nursery for years ago she became the mother of wonderful twins every year the joy of motherhood only grew but along with it the feeling of loneliness deepened Iris descended into the living room where her husband David was sitting he was in titly staring at his phone seemingly uninterested in anything other than the news and business she poured wine into a glass sat next to him and tried to start a

conversation darling how was your day she asked trying to read his mood from his expression fine he replied dry not taking his eyes off the phone the words hung in the air and Iris felt irritation stir inside her she didn't know what else to say but her heart felt heavy sweetheart we need to talk she said trying to soften her tone almost as if afraid to upset him again David exploded his eyes flashed in the light of the screen why is it every time I want some peace and quiet you start bombarding me with your

complaints about life her husband's words pierced Her Like a Knife he flared up like a match just lit and with a look of disdain at his wife he stood up and headed for the bedroom David she cried feeling a lump form in her throat please wait he didn't respond only shot her a dark glance and left Iris was left alone sitting in the living room lost in her thoughts tears of frustration rolled down her face and she truly couldn't understand how to reach her husband she took a few sips of wine savoring its dry taste

and went up to the bathroom to hide her disappointed face as soon as she closed the door behind her her hand trembled and she nearly dropped the glass how did this happen she whispered looking at her reflection you should be strong how much longer can you endure two distinct streaks of Tears remained on her cheeks she tried to smile at her reflection but that smile was nothing more than a pale semblance of Happiness the water in the sink bubbled and Iris leaning over was dying to just burst into tears suddenly the bathroom door cracked open

and and gwynth her little delicate girl with curly hair like a little angel peaked in mom I can't sleep she said rubbing her eyes Iris felt her heart tighten she bent down hugged her daughter and said why can't you sleep Gwyneth I'm scared the little girl admitted hiding in her mother's arms I heard rustling Iris took her hand and holding her close whispered it's okay sweet guard it's just the wind outside do you want me to stay with you until you fall asleep Gwyneth nodded and with a sigh of relief settled into bed Iris laid

down beside her and began telling her a story trying her hardest to make her voice sound calm and confident there was once a little princess who couldn't sleep she began every time she closed her eyes she thought someone was in the room after finishing the story she saw Gwyneth gradually quieting down and after a while the girl fell into a deep sleep her breathing even and calm Iris kissed her goodbye and went back to the bathroom where tears once again streamed down her face she knew her marriage to David was changing so much effort had

been put into creating a cozy Nest yet it seemed he didn't appreciate it every day she woke up hoping he would notice her her care her sacrifices for the family night had enveloped the Nelson's home and the silence seemed to hover over every corner Iris wrapped in a soft blanket sat on the edge of the bed watching David sleep his face was relaxed and his breathing was steady she tried not to think about what was happening between them or how their relationship had changed recently but her heart stubbornly reminding her of its presence wouldn't let

her find peace suddenly the phone on the nightstand vibrated Iris looked at it curiously it's probably worked she thought but then saw a name that caused her anxiety David often received late night messages and she wondered who they were from summoning her courage she reached for the phone and unable to resist pressed the screen the image that appeared shocked her to the core she saw a naked woman with long blonde hair and an attractive figure with the caption I already miss you her breath caught and she felt everything inside her collapse no it can't be

she whispered unable to believe her eyes it was like a knife to the heart one that pierced deeper with every passing moment cutting through her soul tears filled her eyes and she closed her mouth to keep from screaming she abruptly stood up and ran to the bathroom her legs barely obeyed and it seemed like she had only just slammed the door behind her when the tears began to pour uncontrollably how could he how could he do this to me she sawed staring at her reflection in the mirror it reflected not only her weary face but

all the pain squeezing her heart each tear that fell felt like a stone weighing down her soul she sank to the floor hugging her knees the ticking of a clock somewhere in the corner was the only sound and time seemed to stand still inside her a hurricane of emotions raged anger sadness betrayal hopelessness Iris was completely dependent on her husband so she put up with it all she had nowhere to go and she was afraid of being on the streets with the children taking a few deep breaths she composed herself and crawled into bed where

David was peacefully sleeping the soft light illuminated the kitchen when Iris woke up again earlier than everyone else the room was quiet and her thoughts fluttered from one idea to the next like birds trapped in a cage she got up put on her robe and headed to the kitchen to prepare breakfast every step felt heavy as if every movement was weighed down by an invisible burden she poured coffee into her favorite mug but even the strong drink couldn't chase away the darkness clouding her mind thoughts of the message from the mistress haunted her piercing her

heart again and again she reached for The Milk Jug and not noticing how some spilled onto the table she barely held back her tears why is this happening why can't he just tell me the truth she thought why wiping the spilled milk with a rag there was a noise from the kitchen and Iris turned around David had come down the stairs rubbing his eyes and yawning he didn't seem to notice the dark mood of his wife good morning he said sitting down at the table with his cup of coffee she pretended not to hear instead

she continued setting the table arranging the plates and cups with an unfamiliar tension Iris he asked sensing that something was wrong she gave him a reproachful glance but couldn't find the words is everything okay he asked raising an eyebrow everything's fine she replied sarcastically still setting the table the croons fresh out of the oven smelled wonderful but she didn't even want to try one David looked at her in surprise he noticed that there was something more than just tiredness in her voice it was something else maybe anger or hurt Iris went upstairs to the kids'

room to call them for breakfast they were in their pajamas with messy hair as though they' just come out of a pillow fight Mom what's for breakfast asked her daughter gwynneth reaching for croissant croons and Coco Iris answered trying to sound as indifferent as possible I want the chocolate one Gregory exclaimed his eyes wide you'll get it she replied her voice steady though she felt tension build holding up inside her what's going on Iris you're acting weird me she said surprised trying to hide her feelings everything's fine how about you how was your night fine

he replied sipping his coffee why do you keep asking so much isn't that normal she asked trying to suppress her feelings with irony the children exchanged glances not understanding what was going on Mom can you pass me the sugar Gwyneth asked reaching out her hand Iris snapped out of her thoughts and passed to the Sugar Bowl sinking back into silence when breakfast ended David got up and quickly packed his things into his bag she watched him as though he were a complete stranger that brief moment before the goodbye felt like a test the door slammed

shut leaving her alone with her thoughts she looked looked around the kitchen filled with unfinished food and the silence that hum over her like a shadow Mom are you mad at dad Gwyneth asked her voice breaking the silence I'm not mad she replied sitting down in a chair and reaching for her coffee mug I'm just sad why asked Gregory watching her with curiosity let's talk about something else Iris replied trying to shift their attention maybe you can tell me a story the children began sharing their stories and Iris tried to listen smiling at the right

moments but in her mind thoughts swirled about how their life had changed how they were sliding along the edge without realizing the abyss beneath them after breakfast Iris Gathering her strength decided to tackle the household chores she started cleaning the kitchen but her hands moved as if in slow motion each item she put away reminded her that everything was different now nothing was the way it used to be she had nowhere to escape from these thoughts she was tied to this house to this man and even to her children who seemed to be oblivious to

what was going on around them finally when silence fell and the children were napping after lunch Iris sat down on the couch and reached for her phone she hesitated for a moment but eventually dialed Kylie's number her friend was the only person she could open up to and right now it was necessary hello came Kylie's cheerful voice on the other end of the line Kylie I can't take it anymore I can't stand it all Iris burst into tears the tears she had been holding back flowed freely now okay darling let's take it step by step

what happened her friend asked sensing she would have to be the one to offer support I saw a message on David's phone yesterday Iris sobbed some young girl sent him a naked photo and said said she already missed him Kylie paused realizing the weight of the situation that's awful but you suspected he wasn't being completely faithful right yes I only had suspicions before but now I've seen it with my own eyes Iris continued she felt her heartbreaking once again I don't even know what to do and how long are you going to keep putting up

with this Kylie asked her voice sharp but understanding you know I'm in a hopeless situation I have nowhere to go Iris said softly feeling her heart freeze but putting up with all this isn't the answer her friend exclaimed trying to be blunt and honestly my friend you've Let Yourself Go you need to change you're starting again I don't have time for this Iris raised her voice I'm always taking care of the house the kids when am I supposed to have time for myself Kylie sigh so you're just going to wait until he gets tired of

it and kicks you out that's not an option Iris you deserve more Iris wanted to argue but the words caught in her throat her inner voice told her that Kylie was right but she didn't want to hear it she had kids a home responsibilities how could you let this happen her friend said a hint of reproach in her voice you need to take care of yourself maybe join a gym or even just start with simple walks I can't Iris muttered feeling trapped then you'll stay stuck in this vicious cycle and nothing will change Kylie replied

trying to be insistent after the conversation with her friend Iris couldn't settle down too many thoughts swirled in her head she walked up to the large mirror in the hallway and paused for a moment trying to figure fure out who she was now my God Iris you're only 30 but you look like you're 50 she said looking at her reflection what happened to you extra pounds bags under your eyes yeah baby Kylie's right something needs to change but how how do I find time for myself in the middle of all this she was sorting through

her thoughts when a Cry came from the kid's room Gregory are you bothering winth again she asked sharply looking at her son who seemed like an angel out of control Mommy it's not my fault she fell by herself he defended himself trying to look innocent yeah yeah she fell by herself Iris rolled her eyes feeling her patience wearing thin she rushed into the children's room where gwynneth was sitting on the floor sobbing and immediately hugged her sorry sweetie she said bending down to her daughter are you okay he pushed me Gwyneth sobbed wiping her tears

Gregory be kinder to your sister Iris said feeling like a juggler who couldn't keep up with all the balls falling around her but I'm not to blame her son persisted his face contorted with indignation she felt the tension in her chest growing every day felt like a battle and no matter how hard she tried she couldn't handle it all suddenly she just wanted to run away even if just for a minute to escape from the worries from the kids from this miserable life that stretched on endlessly why did I even get married she muttered heading

to the kitchen I just made more problems for myself Kylie's voice kept echoing in her head you deserve more but what did that mean she took her coffee mug and looked out the window where the Sun was shining I wish life could be simpler she said quietly and just then her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of another child crying while she tried to sort out the situation Gregory screamed again mommy I don't want to go to the corner Gregory you broke the rules she replied stubbornly you can't hurt your sister and get away with

it I was just playing he pulled away from her and the disappointment hit her like an ice cold shower Iris sat down in a chair staring at the floor trying to pull herself together together she wanted to feel light like before when life seemed simpler she remembered the days when she could calmly drink her coffee while reading a book when there was no endless routine why is everything so complicated she whispered her voice trembled with Rising emotions Gregory approached her hugged her and said Mommy I'm sorry I didn't mean to upset you Iris hugged her

son trying to calm down I know sweetheart but we have to take care of each other okay okay he agreed quietly his voice softer she understood that she needed to be strong not only for herself but also for her children but how could she be strong when she was losing herself in her own struggles she wanted to cry but instead she decided to pull herself together and do something for herself after some time when the noise in the house quieted down a bit she approached the mirror again this time looking at her reflection she said

Iris it's time for a change you deserve to be happy even if that means making choices that might not be popular with others in the evening David came home later than usual Iris as always waited for him staring out the window when she saw his silhouette against the sunset her heart skipped a beat she hoped for some warm words and maybe even an Embrace which had become rare lately she went to to meet him kissed him but in return she only received a cold look hi he said with noticeable fatigue pulling away from her Embrace

how was your day fine Iris replied trying to hide her disappointment she knew the last few years had been tough but she longed for the time when their relationship was full of warmth and support we have a corporate event next week David said as he walked into the kitchen and opened the fridge you're invited too but but I think it's not really for you you'd be better off taking care of the kids he added dry pouring himself a glass of water those words struck her like a slap in the face she felt something snap inside

her but I want to go too Iris said confidently trying to suppress the storm of emotions within David stopped turned his head toward her and a look of confusion mixed with mockery appeared on his face are you serious he laughed what would you even do there you look more like a housekeeper don't embarrass me those words pierced her heart Iris felt the blood rush to her cheeks and the tears were ready to burst she clenched her fists trying to hold back her hurt I'm not a housekeeper she said trying to speak confidently I'm your wife

and I have the right to a life outside of this house a life he laughed again but this time his laugh was cold and and mocking look at yourself Iris you haven't left the house without the kids in years what writes you can't even dress properly I can dress however I want and it doesn't matter she snapped feeling her voice Shake I want to be a part of your life not just a shadow in the house you are a shadow he continued looking at her indifferently don't even try to deny it I can see how

you look tears bet trayed Iris welling up in her eyes her heart broke at her husband's words but inside a spark of stubbornness ignited she decided she wouldn't let herself break you know I want to work too she said interrupting his tirade I can go get a job find some side work I don't want to just be a housewife David David scuffed work you you won't be able to handle both the kids and a job I don't see you in an office where you have to think and make decisions I can do it she said

not looking away it was important for her that he heard her you don't even believe that yourself he said with a sneer what do you even know about working in an office you don't even remember the last time you hung out with friends let alone colleagues but I have friends she replied feeling bitterness filled her I have you and the kids I'm not giving up giving up he laughed again and that laugh cut through her ears fine if you want to make a fool of yourself at the corporate event go ahead I'll toast to your

bravery if you can make this show anything worth watching Iris felt the tears streaming down her face she wanted to respond but the words were stuck in her throat instead she just turned and walked out of the kitchen where are you going David yelled his voice full of contempt get out if you don't want me to get even more upset suppressing her emotions Iris headed to the bathroom she closed the door behind her and sank to the floor wrapping her arms around her knees tears flowed freely and she didn't know how to deal with it

his words kept echoing in her head you look more like a housekeeper she just wanted to disappear after a few minutes of silence she heard the kids in the Next Room start playing and making noise again it was a reminder of her duties but in that moment she couldn't think about them why is this happening she whispered wiping away her tears why can't he just support me her heart was full of pain and resentment she remembered the days when they laughed together and dreamed of the future she used to be important to him but now

she felt invisible pulling herself together she stood up and left the kids's room in the hallway Gregory greeted her with a toy car in his hands mom what's wrong why are you crying he asked with concern in his voice she smiled at him through her tears nothing sweetheart I'm just a little tired everything will be fine Gregory hugged her and that simple gesture of love was like a bomb for iris's soul she realized that her children with the reason worth fighting for the morning started like any other but Iris felt different there was a new

energy in the air and she was determined to change her life when David left for work without saying a word she got to work sitting at the table she grabbed her phone and without hesitation dialed her friend's number hello came Kylie's familiar voice and Iris felt her heartwarming to make her voice sound confident yeah what do you need her friend asked her interest clearly peaked David has a corporate event coming up and I want to look my best Iris said with enthusiasm feeling a fire of Hope ignite in her chest Kylie jumped for Joy finally

I've been waiting for this moment with everything going on with David I knew you'd pull yourself together thank you Kylie Iris said hearing the support in her friend's voice but I need more than just an hour outfit I want someone to take care of the kids I can't leave them alone oh that's no problem Kylie responded confidently I'll send you the agency's number call them and they'll help you find a nanny then I'll take care of you great Iris exclaimed what kind of Nanny do you think would be best I want someone kind and caring

I have a couple of ideas I know some girls girl who' worked with my acquaintances call the agency and they'll help you pick someone suitable Kylie said then we'll focus on your look thank you you're a lifesaver Iris said feeling the lightness in her heart shift all her worries away after the call ended she grabbed a piece of paper and wrote down the agency's phone number that Kylie had sent her then taking a deep breath she dialed the number hello children's care agency a friendly voice answered hi my name is Iris she said I need

a nanny for twins to watch my kids do you have any available candidates yes of course how old are your children the girl asked and Iris felt more confident they're four years old she replied got it I can offer you several options but first we need to clarify a few details how long do you plan to hire a nanny just for a week to start and probably longer term after that Iris said feeling the ease returned to her voice perfect the girl continued we'll send you several resumés and you can choose the right one feeling

A Rush of emotion Iris asked what are your terms we have a few options you can choose a nanny with experience who can spend time with the kids help with dinner and put them to bed it will cost a little more but she'll keep the entertained for sure the girl explained I'm in Iris said her voice growing more confident let's do that send me the resumés and I'll choose okay I'll get everything ready and send it to you by email it'll be done in a couple of minutes as she hung up Iris felt the tension

begin to leave her she put down the phone and deep inside she knew that this step was just the beginning of her journey toward change she barely had a chance to rest before the kids called for her again Gregory and gwynneth were happily playing in the room she went in to see them and when she saw them laughing she couldn't help but smile what are you little troublemakers up to she asked sitting down on the floor next to them we're building a house with blocks mom Gregory exclaimed joyfully showing her his creative structure cool she

replied leaning over to take a closer look can I help you Gwyneth hugged her and that moment once again filled her with hope these children were her light in dark times and they truly deserve to see their mom happy Mom are you going to the party like a princess Gwyneth asked smiling yes that's right Iris replied though there was a hint of uncertainty in her voice she thought about how important it was to be the kind of mom they wanted to see Gregory looked at her excitedly you'll be the most beautiful Mom I hope so

Iris said with a weak smile but I'll try a while later she received an email from the agency she opened it and began reviewing the résumés of the candidates there were several women with different experiences and references one of them was Julia who had worked with children for several years Iris decided to call her to discuss the details hello came a clear voice hi this is Iris she introduced herself I wanted to know if you're available this evening to work with my children yes of course Julia replied I love working with kids and would be

happy to help great Iris said happily what recommendations do you have I have experiened working with Children of different ages and I can help with games and dinner Julia said I usually put put them to bed and read to them before sleep sounds perfect Iris said feeling hope rising in her chest I want them to feel comfortable with you of course I can come early to meet the kids and talk with them Julia offered yes that would be wonderful we'll be expecting you after hanging up Iris felt a surge of confidence this step was important

and she knew she was making the right choice at that moment her phone r again it was Kylie did you find a nanny her friend asked her voice filled with excitement yes I did I contacted Julia and she's available to come tonight Iris said feeling her voice filled with optimism that's awesome now you can focus on your look Kylie said happily I'll see you at our Cafe tonight that sounds great Iris replied I really want this event to be something special of course you'll see it'll be fantastic you deserve to be happy and look amazing

Kylie reassured her they talked for a few more minutes discussing outfit and makeup details every word from Kylie lifted iris's spirits and she felt A New Hope stirring inside her Iris stood at the door of her house nervously fixing her hair and checking to make sure everything was in place since deciding to get her life life back on track she had felt that every new beginning took courage her gaze landed on the makeup bag she had packed for the upcoming procedures it's just one evening she thought but her heart was pounding in her chest as

if preparing for something far more important after leaving the kids with Julia who had come to help during her difficult days Iris got into the car the drive to the cafe felt endless she could feel the emotions stirring inside her with joy fear hope finally she parked and got out of the car trying to breathe evenly when she entered the cafe she immediately saw Kylie her friend was sitting at a table her hair sparkling and her smile so bright it was blinding she spotted Iris and jumped up to greet her with open arms sweetheart we're

going to make you gorgeous Kylie exclaimed hugging her David's going to regret it I want to believe that Iris said with some uncertainty feeling the tension ease with every word her friend spoke Kylie as if not noticing iris's doubts handed her a glass of champagne drink to your new life this is your moment Iris Iris took the glass and took a sip feeling the bubbles lift her spirits thank you for being here she said sincerely I've already booked you for hair coloring a manicure pedicure and other treatments Kylie continued without stopping it's time time you

started liking yourself oh Kylie you're too thoughtful Iris laughed feeling a bit awkward but also joyful not at all you deserve to be a star and today we're going to pick out a stunning outfit for you after a short break for conversation and discussing their upcoming shopping trip they headed to the fashionable District of the city where the best stores were located how do you like this suit Iris asked pointing to a pants suit that caught her eye Kylie scrunched her face no you need to be a star this won't do her eyes quickly scanned

for the right options and Iris could feel her friend leading them toward a style that Iris had been missing are you sure the dress is better Iris asked doubting herself here Kylie said with excitement in her eyes grabbing a few elegant dresses quick to the fitting room when Iris came out into the Hall her heart started beating faster she felt unsure as if the dress she was wearing didn't reflect her true self I haven't worn anything like this in a long time she lowered her gaze Kylie walked over to her confidently stood next to her

and turned her toward the mirror Perfect Choice straighten your back she said with enthusiasm girls bring the right shoes the store employees brought a pair of black high heeled shoes and when Iris slipped them on she felt a surge of confidence Building inside her Kylie nodded approvingly just what you need you look amazing Kylie gazed at her as if Iris were a creation thank you Iris said softly her voice filled with emotion at first it seemed like this was happening to someone else but as she looked at her reflection in the mirror she felt a

new woman Awakening inside her she smiled straightened her shoulders and began admiring herself in the mirror do you think this is it she asked her friend absolutely you're a goddess in this outfit Kylie replied her eyes sparkling like stars in that moment they both saw their reflected joy in the mirror Iris suddenly felt her old fears insecurities and doubts beginning to melt away in their place came a new feeling she was ready for change ready to conquer the world we have to take a selfie Kylie suggested pulling out her phone this is going to be

documented they started taking pictures laughing and winking at each other each click of the camera captured moments of joy that Iris hadn't felt in a long time now let's pick Out Accessories Kylie exclaimed let's go Iris felt her mood continued to rise as they headed to the accessories section Kylie picked out various jewelry pieces until she stopped at a pair of earrings that sparkled with every movement these are perfect Kylie said enthusiastically as she showed Iris a pair of long sparkling earrings they're gorgeous but they're too flashy for me Iris said hesitantly don't be modest

you deserve to be the center of attention her friend urged this is going to be your night and no one should forget that you exist after a long discussion and lots of joking around they chose the perfect earrings along with a delicate bracelet that complimented the dress beautifully now we just need one last touch makeup Kylie said as they left the store I've booked you an appointment to get your hair and makeup done before the party and all this in one day Iris asked surprised of course you have no idea how quickly time flies when

you're getting ready for something important Kylie smiled excitement washed over Iris I've never felt this beautiful thank you Kylie I never would have done all this without you this is just the beginning her friend said eagerly we're going to make you a star when they returned to the cafe the atmosphere had changed Iris noticed that all eyes were on her she sat at the table with Kylie and their conversation was full of laughter and sincerity you should do this more often Kylie said as they each sipped a glass of wine remember how you felt today

and don't let anyone including David take that confidence from you you're right Iris replied reflecting on her words I've spent too much time worrying about the past they continued discussing future plans joking and laughing when suddenly Kylie stared at Iris with a serious expression you know I have an idea why don't you go on a date with someone when all this is over she suggested Iris froze waves of Doubt Rolling through her mind but I'm not ready what if I get disappointed again Iris you can't let fear control your life Kylie insisted you deserve happiness

and love let this be a new chapter in your life yeah maybe you're right Iris agreed feeling a new fire ignite inside her but maybe I need to think it over of course think about it but don't miss the opportunity they discussed a few more topics but the thoughts of starting a relationship with someone new kept lingering in iris's mind she felt that step by step she was becoming more confident and ready for change when the evening ended and they left the cafe Iris felt like a new chapter was beginning in her life she was

no longer the woman who had accepted failure now she was ready for new Challen challenges and changes Friday is going to be the perfect day for you Kylie said as they said goodbye you'll see how everything changes thank you for everything Kylie Iris said hugging her friend I don't know what I'd do without you we're a team remember that Kylie replied with a smile as Iris headed home she felt completely different she wasn't just preparing for a party she had gained the confidence she'd been looking for for so so long this new version of herself

was ready to face the world and accept all its challenges the new week began for Iris with a bright sunny morning the room was filled with light and as she opened her eyes she felt a spark of enthusiasm rise within her the nanny who had come to look after the kids was already keeping them entertained this was the opportunity she'd been waiting for Iris decided it was time to take a step toward her new life after a shower she put on light Airy clothes that gently hugged her body looking in the mirror she noticed how

fresh her face looked and her eyes seemed to Sparkle confidence was burning inside her you've really changed she whispered to herself as she stopped in front of the mirror studying her reflection and look at how your eyes are shining this thought gave her a sense of calm and she left the room determined to dedicate the day to herself first she headed to a massage Iris had always believed that taking care of herself wasn't selfish it was a necessity at the salon she was greeted by a lively smiling massage therapist good morning Iris how are you

feeling today she asked as she prepared the massage table good morning I'm feeling great Iris replied with a light smile noticing the massage therapist eyeing her approvingly that's awesome let's make sure you leave here feeling like a new woman the therapist said enthusiastically during the massage Iris felt all the tension in Al way each touch from the therapist seemed to lift the weight of past worries she closed her eyes and allowed herself to enjoy the moment forgetting the hustle and bustle of everyday life when the session ended she got up from the table and felt

completely renewed thoughts of what she could do today swirled in her mind her next stop was was a yoga class Iris had been planning to attend for a while she arrived at the studio where the air was filled with the scent of essential oils and the soft light created a relaxing atmosphere hey Iris how are you one of the class members Rosie called out to her she'd met Rosie at a previous session hey I'm great finally found some time for myself Iris responded with joy feeling the confidence growing inside her that's awesome everyone in the

class is so inspired right now you should definitely join in Rosie said with a smile the class was light and enjoyable Iris felt her body filled with energy and her mind clear by the end of the session she couldn't wait to share her experience with Kylie that was amazing she exclaimed when she met Kylie at the cafe after the class I've never felt so light that's great Kylie winked you're just glowing I'm sure you've got a lot to share they sat down at an outdoor table ordering fragrant coffee and desserts so how was your day

Kylie asked leaning in closer I had a massage and went to yoga it was wonderful Irish shared I feel like I've been reborn I have an idea for you Kylie said mysteriously what if we throw a girl's night next week that sounds tempting Ira smiled her eyes lighting up at the thought of a fun evening I could invite a few friends perfect let's do it Kylie was full of enthusiasm it'll be your night and you deserve it 100% Iris thought about how much time she'd spent focusing on David and their marriage and how little attention

she'd paid to herself at that moment she decided it was time to change that the next morning after yoga class she decided to treat herself to a manicure at the salon where she was greeted by the nail technician Iris felt like taking care of herself was becoming her top priority good morning how are you today the technician asked with a wink hi I'm great ready for something new Iris replied with a smile wonderful what color would you like the technician asked let's go for something bright and cheerful Iris said excitedly how about bright red great

choice it will be perfect for your style the nail technician said with delight as the technician worked they discussed various topics and Iris felt how pleasant it had become to talk to people she started laughing and sharing stories from her life after the salon she decided to take a walk in the park the Sun was shining brightly and the air carried the fresh scent of autumn she felt her soul filled with joy and thoughts of her husband and their past began to fade into the background as she walked past a group of young moms one

of them stopped noticing her bright dress hi what a beautiful dress you have the woman said with a smile thank you so much Iris replied feeling a surge of confidence how do you manage with the kids asked another mom joining the conversation not easily but this week I have a nanny and I'm trying to use the time for myself Iris answered cheerfully that's so important agreed the first Mom we have girls nights too it's a must for keeping your sanity what do you usually do Iris asked we go to cafes talk about everything in our

lives and sometimes just of game nights the mom said her eyes sparkling with joy that sounds wonderful I'll have to think about doing that too Iris responded enthusiastically over the next few days she continued to treat herself to new activities she signed up for cooking classes and began learning about healthy eating trying to make something new for the kids every evening when she finished cooking her heart swelled with pride as she became more confident in herself one day after returning home from another class I stopped in front of the mirror she studied her reflection again

and this time her gaze lingered on her eyes you've really changed she said admiring her eyes I'm proud of you she felt more confident and ready for New Challenges Iris realized that life goes on and she wasn't going to let it slip away the next morning as she glanced out the windows of her home she noticed how the bright sun rays filled her with happiness like never before she felt the fire inside her reignite how could you forget how important it is to love yourself she whispered smiling at her reflection with each passing day she

understood more and more that only she could change her life and all it took was one thing to start taking care of herself after several days of self-care Iris decided it was time to invite Kylie and the other friends for a girl's night ideas swirled in her head on how to make this evening Unforgettable I'll host in my place she said picking up the phone to call Kylie we'll have lots of delicious food and fun oh that's going to be great I can't wait to see you and everyone again Kylie replied that evening Iris was

no longer the woman who waited for her husband to come home from work she was confident and happy and it was only when she decided to do something for herself that her life started to change for the better Iris woke up early that morning it was the long awaited day when she would finally wear a new dress and attend her husband's company party she opened her closet where her dress hung and finally took it out it was made of light chiffon with a bright print and it seemed to symbolize the new life she was so

eager for your years are behind you those kinds of outfits are not for you came David's mocking voice as he passed by Iris didn't respond just smiled to herself today she felt different she was ready to begin a new chapter of her life after fixing her hair and doing light makeup she looked in the mirror and was amazed at how much she had changed she was no longer the Lost housewife she once was inside everything was bubbling anticipation joy and a bit of fear when she entered the room David didn't notice her he was talking

to colleagues but then his attention was caught by a stranger she was standing next to Mr Bell the company's director and they were laughing seemingly discussing something important Iris David couldn't believe his eyes when he walked up to them what are you doing here yes dear she smiled we're discussing your new project with Mr Bell David why have you hidden your charming and smart wife from us all these years asked the boss with interest um David hesitated not knowing what to say his pride clashed with his unease I've just been busy with the kids Iris

answered sharply not giving her husband a chance to make excuses Iris so we're all set I'll be expecting you at your new job on Monday Mr Bell continued his voice filled with approval of course I'm looking forward to starting she replied with a sincere Smile David was confused his wife whom he was used to seeing in a house goat had just changed his perception of her for the first time he could see the woman he had once fallen in love with this feeling both puzzled and pleased him what's going on here he asked pulling Iris

aside we were discussing a project and I gave Mr Bell a few suggestions that seemed practical to him he offered me a job at your company she answered calmly and what about the kids he asked raising an eyebrow in Surprise with the nanny dear I no longer want to waste my life on household chores she replied sharply and her words carried a Clarity that immediately struck him though shocked David felt a subtle Envy rising in his chest why hadn't he seen this earlier why had he allowed himself to treat her as his possession he took

a step toward her looking her in the eyes you look amazing he finally said thank you she replied but there was a certain distance in her voice but it doesn't matter if you don't truly appreciate me after that evening David tried to give her more attention he complimented her gave her gifts but the more he tried the more Iris realized that she had lost interest in him she was looking forward to Monday and starting her new job on Monday Iris arrived at the office and the air around her seemed filled with new possibilities she looked

at the unfamiliar faces of her colleagues and felt her confidence grow with every step Mr Bell greeted her with a white smile welcome to the team Iris I know you'll be indispensible she thanked him and felt the tension in her chest ease the whole day was filled with Pleasant meetings and project discussions she found it easy to connect with her colleagues and they responded to her ideas with great interest that evening when she returned home she found David waiting for her he seemed to be in a somewhat down mood how was your first day he

asked as she entered wonderful she replied her eyes glowing with satisfaction I was able to contribute to the team and everyone was happy to see me so you finally found yourself his voice sounded skeptical yes and I like it Iris said not hiding her Joy but what about the kids David still couldn't understand how she could leave them with the nanny I leave the kids with an Nanny they need me to be happy too she answered coldly several weeks after she started her job David began to notice that Iris no longer wanted to spend her

evenings with him she was tired from work and returned home with heavy thoughts meanwhile he was sinking deeper into his own life when he wasn't sharing with her hiding his infidelities he tried to win her back but she seemed to be slipping away one day when he came home Iris was already packing her suitcase where are you going he asked confused I want a divorce she said calmly why do you want a divorce he asked bewildered as she began to pack her things do you think I can forget about all your Mistresses and live as

if nothing ever happened she smirked turning to face him I have my own place now and I won't depend on you anymore I want to feel like a loved woman not someone you wipe your feet on David felt his heart tighten at her words he realized that he had lost her that the dissatisfied woman he once knew had disappeared replaced by the strong and independent Iris we can fix this he said trying to find some solution you don't understand she said firmly I'm free and that freedom is what I need more than anything else in

the world with those words she continued calmly packing her suitcase and in her heart she finally felt that sense of Freedom she had longed for for so many years Iris walked out the door with the feeling that at last she could be herself David stood Frozen his world collapsing he realized he had not only lost her but had also lost himself and so that night Ira stepped into a new phase of her life while David was left behind pondering how they had reached this point