The Rosie Effect

by Graeme Simsion

‘People should be forgiven everything they do three months either side of a divorce.’ ‘On the contrary,’ said Lydia. ‘That’s exactly what they should be judged on.’

We were all silent in the taxi on the way home. Two thoughts were occupying my mind: Gene’s lies had cost him his marriage. And telling the truth could no longer save it.

One relationship. Our relationship had been usurped, superseded, rendered obsolete by the baby. Rosie had what she wanted. Now she didn’t need me.