Chapter 4

I spent two hours on a crucial phone call in Callum’s study. When I emerged, they still hadn’t returned.

Once, I would have been worried sick. Now, I only felt bitter irony.

In the living room, my phone buzzed with a message from an unknown number. The attached photo showed Mila and Sophie hand in hand, running toward Callum on the beach. Their faces glowed with joy beneath the sparklers‘ light – the perfect family portrait. Without me.

The next message confirmed my suspicions: “Seven years of deception must make you furious. I hope you’ll make the right choice.”

Sophie’s words were carefully crafted, but her meaning was clear: step aside gracefully.

Before I could respond, the front door opened. Callum and Mila entered, guilt flickering briefly across their matching faces before Mila thrust a portrait into my hands.

“Mommy, Daddy drew this for you!”

from years ago. The artist’s care was evident in every stroke. Once, it

Aria?” Callum asked softly.

faint trace of Sophie’s signature perfume. “Callum,

perhaps we could have ended things

who gave an

because she’s overthinking again,” he said smoothly. “The framing shop lady was wearing perfume – it rubbed off when we were paying. Isn’t that perfectly

her hands on

Callum added. “Even if

forward. My daughter, with eyes so like my own, met

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Chapter 4

muttering, “Poor Daddy, Mommy’s so jealous even after we explained everything!”

you doubt me, I can prove it. Within three minutes, your beloved husband

will make up an excuse to come see me.”

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