The Paradise Problem

Content Warning: This section of the guide contains brief descriptions of neglect and emotional and physical abuse.

Anna’s husband Liam, whom she calls West, is moving out of the apartment that they have shared for two years, which she will also do in two weeks. She keeps the television and the couch and watches as he and his friends remove the rest of their furniture. Anna likes and admires her soon-to-be ex-husband, even though she knows little about him. They married to obtain cheap family housing at college; she was friends with Liam’s brother Jake, who first suggested the arrangement. Because Anna had Liam have kept different schedules, they have rarely seen each other during their marriage of convenience.

Now that they are parting ways, Anna finds herself suddenly attracted to Liam. He says goodbye and hands her a stack of legal papers, emphasizing that she should have a lawyer read them over and call if she has any questions. They make eye contact for a long time before shaking hands. Anna realizes that she likes his smile and wishes that she had seen more of it.