Marilyn had always believed that her marriage to Scott was founded on trust and mutual respect. In the early days, before they wed, she had formed a close bond with Scott’s six‐year‐old son, Ben—a quiet, gentle boy whose smile could brighten any room. Even Ben’s mother, Patricia, had once praised Marilyn’s natural ability to connect with him. “You’re so good with Ben,” Patricia had said, admiring one of his Lego creations.
After they married, however, things began to change. Scott suggested that Marilyn spend her weekends at her parents’ house. He explained that Patricia felt Ben’s well‐being might be compromised if Marilyn was present during his visits. Although Marilyn was puzzled by the request—remembering fondly the science experiments they had shared and the many ways she had enriched Ben’s life—she reluctantly agreed in the name of peace and harmony within their blended family.
Weeks passed with Marilyn dutifully leaving her home every weekend. Her mother’s gentle concern grew as she noticed that this arrangement was taking an emotional toll on her daughter. “Marilyn, why are you away on your own home so often?” her mother asked over breakfast, but Marilyn offered only a vague explanation that Patricia was merely going through a difficult phase.
Then one Friday, a sudden resolve took hold of Marilyn. While driving toward her parents’ house, she reconsidered her situation and made an unexpected U-turn back home. The silence she encountered as she pulled into the driveway was unsettling. Inside, the living room held a shocking revelation: Scott was seated on the couch with Patricia, who was casually wearing a pair of pajamas Marilyn had recently bought.
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