Winning Back His Ex's Wife's Broken Heart by Hayley

Chapter 136 Sarah pov.

Waking up to another day with Marina in the house felt like preparing for a battle I hadn't signed up for.

Richard was already downstairs, and I could hear faint voices drifting up from the kitchen. Great, I thought, tugging on my robe.

She's probably giving him her daily lecture on how to survive the world.

When I walked in, the first thing I noticed was Marina sitting at the dining table, coffee cup in hand, a magazine spread out in front of her. She glanced up and gavea smile that didn't quite reach her eyes.

"Good morning, Sarah," she said brightly. "Did you sleep well? I hope the baby didn't keep you up too much." "The baby's still pretty quiet," I replied, attempting a polite smile. "Good morning, Marina." Richard was by the stove, frying eggs, and gavea quick grin. "Tea or coffee, love?" "Tea, please," I said, sliding into a chair across from Marina.

"Herbal, right?" Marina chimed in before Richard could even grab a mug. "Caffeine is terrible for the baby at this stage. You don't want to risk it." I blinked at her, biting back the first snappy reply that cto mind. "I was planning on herbal tea anyway," I said, keeping my tone even.

She nodded approvingly, like I was a student who'd finally gotten the answer right.

"Good. And you know, it's really important to start incorporating more leafy greens into your diet. Spinach, kale, those sorts of things. Maybe a green smoothie for breakfast? I can help you make one if you'd like." Richard glanced over his shoulder, clearly sensing my growing irritation. "I think Sarah's got breakfast covered, Marina," he said lightly, trying to diffuse the tension.

"Oh, of course," she said, waving a hand. "I'm just here to help. You know, Sarah, pregnancy is such a crucial time. Everything you eat, drink, and do affects the baby. It's a lot of responsibility." No kidding.

"I'm aware," I said tightly, focusing on the mug Richard placed in front of me. The tea was warm, and soothing, and helpedkeep my composure.

But inside, my thoughts were spiraling. Does she think I haven't read a single book or talked to my doctor? Breakfast dragged on with Marina peppering her comments between bites of toast. By the tI escaped to the living room, I felt like I'd run a marathon.

Running errands was supposed to be my escape, a chance to get sfresh air and clear my head.

I grabbed my purse, ready to bolt out the door, when Marina appeared out of nowhere.

"Where are you off to?" she asked, her tone overly casual.

"Just running a few errands," I said.

"Mind if I calong? I've been meaning to stretch my legs." Did I mind? Oh, absolutely. But saying no felt like asking for another lecture. "Sure," I said, forcing a smile. "Let's go." The grocery store was our first stop, and within minutes, Marina was in full advisory mode.

"You're buying chips?" she asked, peering into my cart with a raised eyebrow. "You know, sodium isn't great for your blood pressure. Maybe sunsalted almonds instead?" I added the almonds to the cart just to avoid an argument. "Thanks for the suggestion," I said, my voice a little tighter than I intended.

At the produce section, things didn't improve.

"Make sure you wash those thoroughly," she said as I picked up a bag of apples. "You never know what kind of pesticides are on them." I gritted my teeth. "I always do." The pharmacy was our last stop, and by then, my patience was hanging by a thread.

Marina hovered as I picked up my prescription, scrutinizing the label like she was the one taking it.

"These are fine," she said finally, as though granting her approval. "But have you thought about adding omega-3 supplements? They're great for brain development." "I'll ask my doctor," I replied curtly, already heading for the checkout.

The car ride hwas silent, save for Marina's occasional humming. I gripped the steering wheel tightly, counting the seconds until we were back at the house.

By the twe got home, I was a bundle of frustration. Marina headed to her room, thankfully givinga break.

I marched into the kitchen, slamming the grocery bags onto the counter.

Richard walked in moments later, his face lighting up when he saw me. "Hey, how'd the errands go?" I spun around to face him, hands on my hips. "Your cousin is how they went." His smile faltered. "What happened?"

"What didn't happen?" I snapped.

"She questioned every single thing I picked up-chips, apples, even my prenatal vitamins. I feel like I'm on skind of reality show called 'Pregnancy Police."" Richard winced, running a hand through his hair. "I'm sorry, Sarah. You know how Marina is. She probably thinks she's helping." "Well, she's not," I said, throwing my hands in the air. "I'm trying to enjoy this pregnancy, but she's makingsecond-guess everything. I can't take it." Richard stepped closer, his expression softening. "Do you wantto talk to her?" I hesitated, the anger draining out of me. "I don't know. I feel like if I say something, it'll just make things worse."

He wrapped his arms around me, pullinginto a comforting hugn "You shouldn't have to deal with this, Sarah. If it's bothering you this much, I'll step in."

I rested my head against his chest, feeling a little better little better just being in his arms. "Th "Thanks, "&murmured. "But I'll try talking to her first. Maybe if I explain how I feel, she'll back off." "And if she doesn't, I've got your back," Richard promised.

I nodded, grateful for his support. But deep down, I wasn't so sure Marina would listen.

Still, it felt good to have a plan, even if it was just a baby step toward reclaiming my sanity.