This was no passing affair, Victoria. For seventeen years, Ive led a double life, Dominic said, nervously twisting a pencil on his desk.
If this is a joke, its in very poor taste, Victoria replied, utterly bewildered.
Lately, she had sensed something amiss with her husband. Dominic had always been consumed by workfrequent business trips, late nights at the office, an air of tension. But a daughter? Where had she come from?
This is real. This is my life. Or rather, ours now.
He rose and moved slowly to the window.
What? Weve been together twenty-six years. We have two wonderful grown sons studying abroad. We were always the perfect family. And now you tell me you have a fifteen-year-old daughter? Have I understood correctly?
You have, Victoria. But theres more.
She froze, unsure how to react.
Shell be living with us. Starting next week. And thats not up for discussion. There are no other options.
You dont even askyou just dictate terms. So if I object, I may as well leave, is that it?
Dont be dramatic. I dont want a divorce. This is simply how things have unfolded, Dominic said wearily.
If youve said all you need to, Ill go. I should return to work, though my lunch hour is clearly over, Victoria answered coolly.
Go, Dominic said shortly, his gaze still fixed beyond the glass.
She left the office, swallowing her emotions. Her mind reeled.
Victoria Whitmore, are you all right? Would you like some water? the secretary asked anxiously.
No, thank you. Call me a cabI cant drive, she replied flatly.
A car will be at the main entrance in five minutes, the young woman informed her.
Thank you, Victoria said, stepping into the lift before finally letting her tears fall.
She dialled a number.
Monica, I wont be in today. Reschedule all my appointments. Do what you must.
Twenty minutes later, she stood before her mother-in-laws door.
Diana, did you know Dominic has a child with another woman? she demanded sharply.
The older woman sighed and nodded.
Yes, I knew. I met the girl when she was eleven. Remember when I had my heart attack? Dominic was terrified and decided I ought to know my granddaughter.
You call her your granddaughter already? How lovely! Victoria retorted bitterly.
And what would you have me do? 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 stared at her mother-in-law, pained.
Why didnt you tell me?
To spare you the hurt youre feeling now, Diana murmured.
Victoria wept and clung to her.
It will be all right, my dear. Youre strong.
I owe nothing to anyone! Victoria suddenly cried. He built another life, and now Im to forgive and accept it?
You must speak with your husband and learn the whole truth, her mother-in-law advised.
Right now, I cant bear to look at him.
A week passed. They did not speak. Then one day, Dominic brought the girl home.
Come in, sweetheartthis is your home now. And this is Victoria Whitmore, your second mother.
Victoria clenched her fists but forced a smile.
Pleased to meet you.
The girl met her gaze with piercing blue eyesjust like Dominics.
Likewise. I hope well be friends.
Lily was a polite, clever girl. Within weeks, Victoria grew fond of her. Yet toward Dominic, she remained cold.
Days later, Victoria filed for divorce. Her mother-in-law stood by her.
Id have done the same, Diana admitted.
Lily was heartbroken. Victoria resolved to speak with her.
Lily, love, lets talk.
The girl sobbed.
Mum, please dont go. I love you.
Victoria held her close.
And I love you, darling.
The next morning, Victoria peered 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 paused and smiled.
Your mothers. Well buy flowers and thank her for you.
Lily embraced her tightly.
