It's one of those decisions that once you make it, you better be damn sure you mean it. We've talked about this, but not since shortly after he left. I felt it would be best to bring up the subject again before a processor comes to serve him with papers.

I'd two perfect excuses to call. The first was to check on his grandfather who's in the hospital. I've always liked Clifford — he always treated me very well, as did his grandmother who passed away last year. The second was to tell him one of our close friend's mother passed away this week. I'm sure The Dick hasn't talked with this friend since he left town, so a call would be most appreciated.

After I'd taken care of these two tasks, I began with the real purpose of the call.

"So what are your thoughts on our current situation?" I'm surprised at how casually I transitioned into the line.

"What do you mean? I guess I haven't really thought about it." He stumbled over the words like I had slapped him upside the head.

"I ask because I'm ready to file for divorce and I just didn't want that to come as a surprise."

"You're what? You mean...I didn't think...um...when did...oh, wow..." His voice trailed off.

"We talked about this. I don't ever expect you to come home and you're the one who said that you wanted to start a new life. I'm mostly done with the cancer stuff, so I'm ready to do what comes next on my list. Taking care of this is next. I'm ready to move on with my life."

The words came out so easily, as if I prepared the speech.

"I'm not going to challenge anything. I told you that. But could you just wait until Thursday before you do anything?"

I tell him I will, but I'm not sure why. As I hang up the phone I wonder what Thursday will bring. I wonder what he's up too.