“What are you talking about? Jacob’s never won the lottery,” I say looking up from my computer monitor at my coworker.

“Are you sure? This looks like him.”’ She hands me a news article she printed. The date is exactly a year ago. The man in the photo is holding up a large check at least four feet long. His face is blurred and the article states that he did not wish to disclose his identity.

“Where did you get this?” I ask folding the piece of paper and putting it in my pocket.

“It came up on social media today, because the winner of last night’s pot is also from our town. They did a flashback or something like that.” She shrugs.

“It’s not him, but thanks for checking,” I say and stand up, grabbing my purse. “Leaving for lunch. See you in an hour.”

It’s him. I recognize him even with the face blur. I also notice his favorite jersey. I drive fast to Jacob’s job. He has some explaining to do.

I call him from the parking lot. No need to make a scene at the accounting firm he works at.

“Jacob, if that’s even your name, come out here. It’s urgent.” My ears feel hot, my heart is racing. How could he do this? What else is he hiding?

“How could you lie to me?” I ask when he approaches my car.

“What are you talking about, baby?” He tries to kiss me and I turn my head. His lips land on my cheek.

I pull the crumpled paper from my pocket and throw it at him. I stare intensely at him as he opens it up, wanting to see the exact moment he realizes he’s caught.

“This is what you’re mad at?” He chuckles. “It was $500, mi amor. Did you read the article? It says it right there.”

“I don’t care about the money, Jacob. Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I must have forgotten. I don’t know. I didn’t think it was a big deal.”

“You were in a newspaper and you went out of your way to hide your identity. Try again.”

“I thought I told you. Are you sure you didn’t forget me mentioning it?” He scratches his head.

My eyes narrow. “I’m not playing with you. Tell me what you’re hiding or I will leave and pack my stuff so fast.”

“You would throw throw ten years in the trash over $500?”

I pick up my purse, get back in my car and drive off. I can see Jacob in my rear view mirror staring in disbelief.