lemen

e currents of judgment and scarcity. We had no other family, just us. Derrick's parents, the Bradfords, had seen me as an unacceptable blight on their lineage, a stained commoner unfit for their heir. Yet, Derrick had chose

ve had slowly, agonizin

ring scent of Charlotte's perfume on his skin, faint but unmistakable, turned my stom

cheerful. He kissed my forehead, a perfun

Thank you for being so understanding. For making this easier. It means

clearly didn't intend to build with me. After breakfast, he returned my phone. A small victory.

n't know my mother wasn't alone anymore, that we weren't weak and vulnerable. He didn't

ate nutritionist and personal trainer, her every move designed to highlight m

, the doctors said. They recommended a specialized hospital, far away

to my own swollen belly. A wave of dizziness washed over me. I felt impossib

a raw, aching sound. 'He's breaking our

a fierce denial. 'I'll surviv

nce thrown my way. His face was etched with f

ight?" he asked,

wouldn't show wea

is voice softer now. "Charlotte's situation is urgent. But I'

tell him I needed him. To tell him our ba

d surprised, perhaps expecting a fight. He he

!" Charlotte's shrill v

unbearable conflict on his face. He turned to

shing me against his chest. His voice was fr

against my ear. "I'm staying. I'll send my beta wi

ribs. A foolish, dangerous hope surged throu

ammed into me. He didn't deserve

le. "Go with her. If anything happens to her chi

en. I couldn't bear the thought of him blaming me

mine for an explanation. I gave him none

of the maids, an older woman who had al

bling. "Let Ava move back into her old room. This gu

rlotte leaned out of the car win

napped. "That room is mine now. I'

" I said, my voice flat

ntly spread across his face.

I get back, I'll buy us a brand new house. A real home, ju

final wave, drove away with Char