This is no fleeting affair, Victoria. Ive lived a double life for seventeen years, said Dominic, nervously twisting a pencil on his desk.
If this is a joke, its in very poor taste, Victoria replied, her voice trembling.
For weeks, she had sensed something amiss with her husband. Dominic had always been consumed by workfrequent business trips, late nights at the office, a restlessness she couldnt place. But a daughter? Where had she come from?
This is serious. This is my reality. 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? Did I hear that right?
You did, Victoria. But that isnt all.
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 present it as fact. So if I object, I can leave, is that it?
Dont be dramatic. I dont want a divorce. This is just 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 coldly.
Go, Dominic replied shortly, his gaze fixed beyond the glass.
She left the office, holding back her emotions, her mind spinning.
Victoria Whitmore, are you all right? Would you like a glass of water? the secretary asked, concerned.
No, thank you. Call me a cabI cant drive, she answered 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 and finally letting her tears fall.
She dialled a number.
Monica, I wont be in today. Reschedule all my appointments. Just handle what you must.
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 the 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 prevent it. But the girl exists. Dominics blood runs in her veins.
Victoria looked at her mother-in-law, pained.
Why didnt you tell me?
To spare you the hurt youre feeling now, Diana said softly.
Victoria broke into sobs and embraced her.
It will be all right, my dear. Youre strong.
I owe no one anything! Victoria suddenly cried. He built another life, and now Im to forgive and accept it?
You must speak to your husband and sort this out, her mother-in-law advised.
Right now, I cant even look at him.
A week passed. They did not speak. Then, one day, Dominic brought the girl home.
Come in, darling, this 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 blue eyesthe very image of Dominics.
Pleased to meet you too. I hope we can be friends.
Lily was polite and bright. Within weeks, Victoria had grown accustomed to her. But toward Dominic, she remained distant.
Days later, Victoria filed for divorce. Her mother-in-law stood by her.
Id have done the same, Diana admitted.
Lily was heartbroken. Victoria decided to speak with her.
Lily, love, lets talk.
The girl sobbed.
Mum, please dont go. I love you.
Victoria held her tight.
And I love you, my 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 lane.
Where are we?
Victoria stopped and smiled.
At your mothers. Well buy flowers and thank her for you.
Lily hugged her fiercely.
