I wanted to do something for myself.
I had spent years putting our shared expenses first. There was always another bill to pay, another repair to make, or another practical purchase that seemed more important than anything I wanted.
That Friday, after work, I decided to visit the shopping mall.
My favorite jewelry boutique was there, tucked between a cosmetics store and an elegant clothing shop. I had passed it countless times, admiring the necklaces and earrings displayed in the window.
I had never bought myself anything expensive from there.
I thought that might change.
Before heading to the boutique, I stopped at a clothing store and bought a couple of T-shirts for Mark. He was forever wearing holes in his clothes, and despite everything, I still found myself thinking about the little things that made his life easier.
I bought myself a pack of socks, too.
By the time I reached the jewelry section, I was feeling better. I told myself that I deserved a little beauty in my life, even if no one else remembered to give it to me.
