This isnt some fling, Victoria. Ive been living a double life for seventeen years, Dominic said, twisting a pencil nervously on his desk.
If this is a joke, its a terrible one, Victoria replied, bewildered.
For weeks, shed sensed something was off with her husband. Dominic had always been busy with workfrequent business trips, late nights at the office, constant tension. But a daughter? Where had she come from?
This is serious. This is my reality. Ours now, to be exact.
He stood and walked slowly to the window.
What? Weve been together for twenty-six years. We have two wonderful grown sons studying abroad. Weve always been the perfect family. And now youre telling me you have a fifteen-year-old daughter? Did I hear that right?
You heard correctly, Victoria. But theres more.
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 drop this on me. So if I disagree, I can 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, Im leaving. I need to get back to work, even though my lunch break is clearly over, Victoria said coolly.
Go, Dominic replied shortly, not looking away from the window.
She left the office, forcing her emotions down. Her head spun.
Victoria Bennett, are you alright? Would you like some water? the secretary asked, concerned.
No, thank you. Call me a cabI cant drive, she said flatly.
A car will be at the main entrance in five minutes, the young woman informed her.
Thanks, Victoria said, stepping into the lift before finally letting her tears fall.
She dialed a number.
Monica, I wont be 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 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? Brilliant! Victoria snapped.
And what would you suggest? Should I reject the child? Diana replied calmly. If Id known fifteen years ago, I wouldve done everything to stop this. But the girl exists. Dominics blood runs in her veins.
Victoria stared 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.
Itll be alright, love. Youre strong.
I dont owe anyone anything! Victoria suddenly shouted. He built another life, and now Im just 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 Bennett, your second 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 took it hard. Victoria decided to talk to her.
Lily, love, lets chat.
The girl sobbed.
Mum, dont go. I love you.
Victoria hugged her tightly.
And I love you, darling.
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.
