This isnt some random fling, Victoria. Ive been living a double life for seventeen years, Dominic said, nervously spinning a pen on his desk.
If this is a joke, its in very poor taste, Victoria replied, bewildered.
Lately, shed sensed something was off with her husband. Dominic was always buried in 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, ours now.
He stood and slowly walked to the window.
What? Weve been together for twenty-six years. We have two wonderful grown sons studying abroad. We were always the perfect family. And now youre telling me you have a fifteen-year-old daughter? Is that what Im hearing?
You heard right, Victoria. But theres more.
She froze, unsure how to react.
Shes moving in with us. Starting next week. And its not up for discussion. There are no other options.
Youre not even asking meyoure just laying down the law. So if I disagree, I should 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 done, Ill go. I need to get back to work, even if my lunch break is clearly over, Victoria said coldly.
Go, Dominic replied shortly, not turning from the window.
She left the office, holding back her emotions. Her head spun.
Victoria Whitmore, are you all right? Would you like some water? the secretary asked, concerned.
No, thank you. Call me a taxiI 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, Im not coming in today. Reschedule all my meetings. Just handle what you can.
Twenty minutes later, she stood at her mother-in-laws door.
Diana, did you know Dominic has a daughter with another woman? she demanded.
The older woman sighed and nodded.
Yes, I know. I met the girl when she was eleven. Remember when I had that heart attack? Dominic panicked and decided I should know about my granddaughter.
Youre calling her your granddaughter already? Bravo! Victoria snapped.
What would you suggest? Should I reject the child? Diana replied calmly. If Id known fifteen years ago, Id have done everything to stop it. But the girl exists. Dominics blood runs through 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 burst into tears and hugged her.
Everything will be all right, 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 husband and sort this out, 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 Whitmore, your well, your other mother.
Victoria clenched her fists but forced a smile.
Nice to meet you.
The girl looked at her with piercing blue eyesjust like Dominics.
Nice 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 she remained cold toward Dominic.
Days later, Victoria filed for divorce. Her mother-in-law supported her.
Id have done the same, Diana admitted.
Lily was devastated. Victoria decided to talk to her.
Lily, please, lets talk.
The girl sobbed.
Mum, dont go. I love you.
Victoria hugged her tightly.
And I love you, sweetheart.
The next morning, Victoria peeked into Lilys room.
Get up. 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 hugged her tight.
