**Diary Entry 12th November**
This isnt some fleeting affair, Victoria. For seventeen years, Ive lived a double life, Dominic said, twisting a pen nervously on his desk.
If this is a joke, its in very poor taste, Victoria replied, utterly bewildered.
Lately, shed sensed something was off with her husband. Dominic had always been 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 walked slowly to the window.
What? Weve been together twenty-six years. Weve raised two wonderful sons, both 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 correctly, Victoria. But thats not all.
She froze, unsure how to react.
Shell be living with us. Starting next week. And thats not up for debate. There are no other options.
You didnt even askyou just dropped this on me. So if I refuse, Im the one who has to leave, is that it?
Dont be dramatic. I dont want a divorce. This is just how things have unfolded, Dominic said wearily.
If youre done, Im leaving. I need to get back to workthough my lunch break is clearly over, Victoria said coolly.
Go, Dominic replied shortly, still staring out the window.
She left the office, holding herself together, though her head was spinning.
Victoria Whitmore, are you alright? Would you like some water? the secretary asked, concerned.
No, thank you. Call me a cabI cant drive right now, she said flatly.
A car will be at the main entrance in five minutes, the young woman informed her.
Thank you, Victoria muttered, stepping into the lift before finally letting the tears fall.
She dialled a number.
Monica, I wont be in today. Reschedule all my meetings. Just do what needs doing.
Twenty minutes later, she stood at her mother-in-laws doorstep.
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 that heart attack? Dominic panicked and decided I should know about my granddaughter.
Youre already calling her your granddaughter? How lovely! Victoria said 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. Shes Dominics blood.
Victoria stared at her, pained.
Why didnt you tell me?
To spare you the hurt youre feeling now, Diana said softly.
Victoria broke down, sobbing into her embrace.
Itll be alright, love. Youre stronger than this.
I dont owe anyone anything! Victoria suddenly yelled. He built another life, and now Im expected to forgive and accept it?
You need to talk to your husbandget the full story, her mother-in-law advised.
Right now, I cant even look at him.
A week passed in silence. Then, one day, Dominic brought the girl home.
Come in, lovethis is your home now. And this is Victoria Whitmore, your well, your other mother.
Victoria clenched her fists but forced a smile.
Pleased to meet you.
The girl looked at her with piercing blue eyesjust like Dominics.
You too. I hope we can be friends.
Lily was polite, bright. Within weeks, Victoria had grown used to her. But toward Dominic, she remained cold.
Days later, Victoria filed for divorce. Diana supported her.
Id have done the same, she admitted.
Lily took it hard. Victoria sat her down.
Lily, sweetheart, lets talk.
The girl sobbed.
Mum, please dont go. I love you.
Victoria held her tight.
And I love you, darling.
The next morning, she peeked into Lilys room.
Up you get. Breakfast, then were off.
Where to?
Surprise.
Twenty minutes later, they walked down the street.
Where are we?
Victoria stopped and smiled.
At your mums. Were buying flowersto thank her for you.
Lily hugged her fiercely.
**Lesson learned: Family isnt just blood. Its who stands by you when the world falls apart.**
