When my daughter casually mentioned inviting someone unfamiliar to her birthday party, I had no idea how much it would change our lives. That innocent conversation opened the door to a revelation I never saw coming.
My husband, Jake, and I have been married for seven years, together for a decade. He’s a kind and hardworking man, though a bit absentminded at times. I’ve never had a reason to doubt him. But when Jake lost his job earlier this year, things shifted.
While I took on extra hours to support us, Jake stayed home with our five-year-old daughter, Ellie. She adored the extra time with him, seeing her dad as a superhero. Life seemed normal—until Ellie’s words turned everything upside down.
One evening, as we finalized her birthday guest list, Ellie asked, “Mommy, can I invite the pretty lady who visits Daddy while you’re at work?”
I froze, keeping my voice calm. “What lady, sweetie?”
“The one with long hair,” she replied, smiling. “She’s so nice and always gives Daddy a big hug.”
My chest tightened, but I kept my composure. “Of course, honey. Let’s invite her next time.”
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