This is no casual fling, Eleanor. Ive lived a double life for seventeen years, Dominic said, twisting a pen nervously on his desk.
If this is a joke, its a terrible one, Eleanor replied, her voice trembling.
For weeks, she had sensed something was off. Dominic had been distantlate nights at the office, business trips, restless energy. But a daughter? Where had she come from?
This is real. This is my life. And now, its yours too.
He stood slowly and walked to the window.
What? Weve been married twenty-six years. We have two grown sons studying abroad. We were the perfect family. And now youre telling me you have a fifteen-year-old daughter? Is that what Im hearing?
You heard correctly, Eleanor. But theres more.
She froze, unsure how to react.
Shes moving in with us. Next week. Its not up for discussion. There are no other options.
Youre not even askingjust dictating. So if I object, I should leave, is that it?
Dont be dramatic. I dont want a divorce. This is just how things are now, Dominic sighed.
If youre done, Im leaving. My lunch break is clearly over, Eleanor said coldly.
Go, Dominic muttered, still staring out the window.
She left the office, swallowing her rage. Her mind reeled.
Eleanor Whitmore, are you alright? 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 front entrance in five minutes.
Thank you, Eleanor said, stepping into the lift before the tears finally broke free.
She dialed a number.
Margaret, I wont be in today. Reschedule all my meetings. Do what you must.
Twenty minutes later, she stood before her mother-in-laws house.
Dorothy, did you know Dominic has a daughter with another woman? she demanded.
The older woman sighed and nodded.
Yes. I met the girl when she was eleven. Remember when I had my heart attack? Dominic was terrifiedhe thought I should know my granddaughter.
You call her your granddaughter already? How touching, Eleanor spat.
And what would you have me do? Reject her? Dorothy replied calmly. If Id known fifteen years ago, Id have done everything to stop it. But she exists. Shes Dominics blood.
Eleanor stared at her, wounded.
Why didnt you tell me?
To spare you the pain youre feeling now.
Eleanor broke down, collapsing into Dorothys arms.
It will be alright, love. Youre strong.
I dont owe anyone anything! Eleanor suddenly shouted. He built a whole other life, and now Im supposed to forgive and accept it?
You need to talk to himget the full story.
Right now, I cant even look at him.
A week passed in silence. Then, one evening, Dominic brought the girl home.
Come in, sweetheart. This is your home now. And this is Eleanor Whitmore, your… other mother.
Eleanor clenched her fists but forced a smile.
Nice to meet you.
The girl met her gaze with piercing blue eyesjust like Dominics.
Nice to meet you too. I hope we can be friends.
Lily was polite, bright. Within weeks, Eleanor grew used to her presencebut Dominic remained a stranger.
Days later, Eleanor filed for divorce. Dorothy supported her.
Id have done the same, she admitted.
Lily was devastated. Eleanor sat her down.
Lily, lets talk.
The girl sobbed.
Mum, dont go. I love you.
Eleanor pulled her close.
And I love you, sweetheart.
The next morning, Eleanor peered into Lilys room.
Get up. Were having breakfast, then were off.
Where?
Its a surprise.
Twenty minutes later, they walked down the street.
Where are we?
Eleanor stopped, smiling.
Your mothers. Were buying flowers to thank herfor you.
Lily hugged her tight.
