Chapter 3

I didn’t have to wait long in the room. Callum soon entered with Mila, their matching features striking- both wearing gentle smiles, eyes full of apparent warmth as they moved to embrace me.

I instinctively stepped back.

Callum’s smile faltered for a moment, but he said nothing. Mila’s eyes filled with tears. “Mommy, don’t you want to hug me?”

Her lips trembled, eyes glistening – the perfect picture of innocence that always melted her father’s heart.

Callum immediately knelt beside her, pulling her close. “Of course not, sweetheart. Mommy’s dress is stained- she just doesn’t want to ruin your beautiful birthday dress.”

Mila’s tears subsided as she processed this. Then her face lit up with that dazzling smile I once treasured.

“Mommy, Daddy and I have a special surprise for you,” she said sweetly. “Even though it’s my birthday, we never forget what you went through for me. The gift isn’t here yet – we need to go pick it up.”

for me, how I’d been moved to tears each time. Now I realized those gifts were just excuses to meet Sophie.

whom I’d have given my

to betray me, had made those vows

silently, watching them

watched their car disappear.

were leaving, their knowing smirks making it clear – I’d always

room, I retrieved an old phone from a locked

I’d learned about Sophie Blake. His childhood sweetheart, his “pure first love.” Young and insecure, I’d created a secret social media account to monitor their relationship.

I saw Sophie’s recent post – a grid of photos at the beach. There she was with Mila, surrounded by sparklers, faces pressed together like mother and

people I love

14:14

Years of Love, Seven Minutes of Truth

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