**Chapter 2: A Painful Past**

The memories of Dorothy's marriage to Lucas still lingered, a painful reminder of the tumultuous relationship they had shared. As she watched Lucas walk into her living room, she couldn't help but think back to the early days of their marriage. They had been young and in love, or so she had thought. Lucas had been charming and charismatic, sweeping her off her feet with his good looks and smooth talk. But as the years went by, Dorothy began to see a different side of Lucas. He was controlling and manipulative, always trying to get his way. He would belittle her and make her feel small, eroding her self-esteem with his constant criticism. Dorothy had tried to brush it off, thinking that their love was strong enough to overcome any obstacle. But as the years turned into a decade, she realized that she was trapped in a toxic relationship. The flashbacks flooded her mind as she watched Lucas take a seat on the couch, making himself at home. She remembered the countless arguments they had, the sleepless nights spent worrying about their future, and the tears she had cried in private. It was a painful past, one that she had tried to bury, but the wounds still lingered. As she stood in the kitchen, frozen in time, Dorothy's mind replayed the events that had led to their messy divorce. Lucas's infidelity had been the final straw, and she had filed for divorce soon after. But even though they were no longer together, Lucas still had a hold on her. He would often make appearances in her life, always at the most inopportune moments, to stir up trouble and cause her pain. Dorothy took a deep breath, trying to shake off the memories. She couldn't let Lucas get to her, not again. She turned her attention to the present, watching as Lucas began to scan the room, his eyes lingering on the photos and mementos that adorned the shelves. He was searching for something, or someone, and Dorothy's instincts told her that it wasn't good. Just then, a faint noise came from outside, and Dorothy's heart skipped a beat. It sounded like someone was approaching. She hoped it was one of her friends, or better yet, Stan. She knew that Lucas wouldn't hesitate to cause a scene, and she needed someone to intervene before things escalated. But for now, she was alone with Lucas, and she knew that she had to be careful. She took a step back, trying to create some distance between them, and asked, "So, Lucas, what brings you here today?" Her voice was steady, but her heart was racing with anticipation. Little did she know, the conversation was about to take a dark turn.