“You have to understand. I’m a young man spending months away from home. Things happen.”

“Things happen?” I repeated.

“Look, men have needs. She’s not the first woman I’ve spent time with while working, and she probably won’t be the last.”

My chest tightened.

I’d spent months caring for two newborn babies while believing my husband was counting the days until our reunion.

Meanwhile, he’d been living an entirely different life.

I glanced toward the luggage area and saw Gerald approaching with the diaper bag.

Suddenly, I thought someone might finally stand up for me.

“Actually, Ryan, I understand something now,” I said quietly.

He looked relieved.

“Good.”

“But before we continue, look to your right.”

Ryan turned.

His confidence vanished.

“Dad?”

Gerald stopped in front of us, his expression stern.

“What on earth were you thinking?” he demanded.

Ryan lowered his eyes.

For one brief moment, I felt vindicated.