When I asked my daughter who else she wanted to invite to her birthday party, her innocent response turned my world upside down. She mentioned a woman I’d never heard of, and a week later, my life changed forever.
My husband, Jake, and I have been together for ten years, married for seven. He’s kind, hardworking, and a bit scatterbrained, but I never doubted him—until now.
Earlier this year, Jake lost his job, and while he searched for work, I took on extra hours. It was tough, but we managed. Ellie, our five-year-old, loved having more time with her dad. To her, he was a superhero.
Things seemed fine until Ellie’s birthday planning. While finalizing her guest list, she said, “Mommy, can I invite the pretty lady who visits Daddy while you’re at work?”
I froze. “What pretty lady, sweetie?”
“The one with long hair!” Ellie said excitedly. “She’s so nice and always gives Daddy a hug when she leaves.”
I smiled weakly and agreed, my mind racing. Who was this woman? Was Ellie imagining things, or was there something I didn’t know? I decided to wait and see if she’d show up at the party.
On the day of the party, friends and family filled our home. Ellie was glowing with joy, but I was a bundle of nerves, watching the door.
When the bell finally rang, I opened it to find a young woman with long dark hair and a shy smile. She held a small gift bag. “Hi, I’m Lila. I’m here for Ellie’s party.”
Before I could respond, Ellie ran over, squealing, “It’s her! Mommy, it’s her! Daddy’s friend!”
I invited Lila inside, following closely as Ellie led her to the backyard where Jake was. The moment he saw her, his face went pale. “Lila,” he muttered. “I didn’t think you’d come.”
“We need to talk,” I said, ushering them into the kitchen. Once Ellie was distracted, I demanded answers.
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