Her eyes widened. Nestled among the tall pines stood a small stone cottage, its walls wrapped in ivy, a garden blooming with wildflowers. The scene was so beautiful it felt otherworldly. But her awe crumbled when the door opened.
A blonde woman appeared, radiant and smiling as she greeted Paul. Melissa’s heart plummeted. When he embraced the woman warmly before following her inside, Melissa’s world shattered.
A wave of nausea overtook her. Clutching her belly, she steadied herself against the tree, vision blurring with tears. She had imagined many explanations for Paul’s secrets—but this betrayal was unbearable.
Stumbling back through the forest, Melissa’s fury burned hotter than her grief. By the time she reached home, every step was fueled by the baby kicking inside her, reminding her of the future she had to protect.