This isnt some random fling, Victoria. Ive led a double life for seventeen years, Dominic said, nervously twisting a pencil on his desk.
If this is a joke, its a very poor one, Victoria replied, bewildered.
For weeks, shed sensed something was off about her husband. Dominic had always been consumed by workfrequent business trips, late nights at the office, restless energy. But a daughter? Where had she come from?
This is serious. This is my reality. Or rather, now its ours. He stood and moved slowly to the window.
What? Weve been together twenty-six years. We have two wonderful adult sons studying abroad. Weve always been the perfect family. And now youre telling me you have a fifteen-year-old daughter? Have I got that right?
Youve got it right, Victoria. But theres more.
She froze, unsure how to respond.
Shell be living with us. Starting next week. And thats not up for debate. There are no other options.
You dont even ask meyou just drop this on me. So if I disagree, I can leave, is that it?
Dont be dramatic. I dont want a divorce. This is just how things have turned out, Dominic said wearily.
If youre finished, Im going. I need to get back to work, even though my lunch break is clearly over, Victoria said coldly.
Go, Dominic replied shortly, his gaze still fixed outside.
She left the office, holding back her emotions. Her head spun.
Victoria Hart, are you alright? Would you like some water? the concerned secretary asked.
No, thank you. Call me a cabI cant drive, she answered stiffly.
A car will be at the main entrance in five minutes, the young woman informed her.
Thanks, Victoria said, stepping into the lift and finally letting her tears fall.
She dialled a number.
Monica, I wont be in today. Move all my appointments. Just handle what needs doing.
Twenty minutes later, she stood before her mother-in-laws house.
Diana, did you know Dominic has a daughter with another woman? she demanded.
The older woman sighed and nodded.
Yes, I knew. I met the girl when she was eleven. Remember when I had that heart attack? Dominic was terrifiedhe decided I should know about my granddaughter.
Youre already calling her your granddaughter? Brilliant! Victoria retorted sarcastically.
And what would you suggest? Should I reject the child? Diana replied calmly. Had I known fifteen years ago, Id have done everything to stop it. But the girl exists. Dominics blood runs in her veins.
Victoria looked at her mother-in-law with pain.
Why didnt you tell me?
To spare you the hurt youre feeling now, Diana said softly.
Victoria burst into tears and embraced her.
Itll be alright, my dear. Youre strong.
I dont owe anyone anything! Victoria suddenly shouted. He built another life, and now Im supposed to forgive and accept it?
You need to talk to your husbandget the full story, her mother-in-law advised.
Right now, I cant even look at him.
A week passed. They didnt speak. Then one day, Dominic brought the girl home.
Come in, sweetheart, this is your home now. And this is Victoria Hart, your second mother.
Victoria clenched her fists but forced a smile.
Pleased to meet you.
The girl looked at her with piercing blue eyesjust like Dominics.
Pleased to meet you too. I hope we can be friends.
Lily was polite and bright. After a few weeks, Victoria grew used to her. But toward Dominic, she remained icy.
Some days later, Victoria filed for divorce. Her mother-in-law supported her.
Id have done the same, Diana admitted.
Lily took it hard. Victoria decided to talk to her.
Lily, please, lets chat.
The girl sobbed.
Mum, dont go. I love you.
Victoria hugged her tightly.
And I love you, darling.
The next morning, Victoria peeked into Lilys room.
Up you get. Well have breakfast, then head out.
Where to?
Its a surprise.
Twenty minutes later, they walked down the street.
Where are we?
Victoria stopped and smiled.
At your mothers. Well buy flowers and thank her for you.
Lily held her tight.
