My husband came home and said, “I’m in love with another woman, but I still love you, so I’ll just live in both houses” — I thought he was joking until he began packing, so I taught him a lesson he never expected from me.

 

I covered my mouth.

 

Elena pulled a chair beside me and sat close enough that our shoulders touched.

 

Vivian reached for my hand.

 

I moved mine away.

 

“You helped him

put my child’s home at risk,” I said.

 

“I know.”

 

“No, you know the words.

 

You don’t know what it felt like when Kieran asked whether his father left because of him.”

 

Vivian’s eyes flooded.

 

“Let me make it right.”

 

“You can tell the truth in court.

 

After that, Kieran decides when he feels safe with you.”

 

She nodded and wiped her face.

 

“That is fair.”

 

When Vivian left, Elena remained beside the window.

 

“There’s something I must say,” she said.

 

“I knew Callum was married when we met.”

 

I looked at her.

 

“He said you had separated but were staying together for Kieran.