It isnt some shortlived caper, Victoria, Ive been living a double life for seventeen years, Daniel said, twirling a pen on his desk like he was nervous.
If its a joke, its a terrible one, Victoria replied, looking baffled.
Shed been feeling something was off with her husband for weeks. Daniel was always swamped with work endless business trips, late nights in the office, the usual stress. But a girl? Whered that come from?
Its serious. Its my reality. And now, its ours too.
He got up and walked slowly over to the window.
What? Weve been together for twentysix years. Weve got two adult sons studying abroad. Weve always been the pictureperfect family. And now you tell me you have a fifteenyearold daughter? Did I hear that right?
You heard right, Victoria. And theres more.
She froze, not knowing what to say.
Shell be moving in with us next week. Theres no debate, no other option.
Youre not even asking me how I feel youre just dumping this on me. If I dont agree, I can just leave, right?
Dont dramatise it. Im not after a divorce. Things just turned out this way, Daniel said, his voice weary.
If thats the final word, Im out. I have to get back to work, even though my lunch break is clearly over, Victoria answered, coldly.
Go, Daniel said flatly, not taking his eyes off the window.
She left the office trying to hold back the surge of emotions. Her head spun.
Victoria Clarke, are you alright? Want a glass of water? the receptionist asked, concerned.
No, thank you. Call a taxi, I cant drive, she snapped.
A cab will be waiting at the main entrance in five minutes, the young woman replied.
Thanks, Victoria said as she stepped into the lift, finally letting her tears flow.
She dialled a number.
Emma, I wont be at the office today. Cancel all my meetings. Do whatever you need to do.
Twenty minutes later she was standing in front of her motherinlaws house.
Margaret, did you know Daniel has a daughter with another woman? she asked sharply.
The older woman sighed and nodded.
Yes, I know. I met the girl when she was eleven. Remember my heart attack? Daniel was terrified and thought I should be told for my granddaughters sake.
You already call her your granddaughter? Brilliant! Victoria shot back sarcastically.
And what do you suggest? Throw the child out? Margaret replied calmly. If Id known fifteen years ago, Id have done everything to stop it. But this girl exists. Daniels blood runs through her veins.
Victoria looked at her motherinlaw with hurt.
Why didnt you tell me?
To spare you the pain youre feeling now, Margaret said gently.
Victoria burst into sobs and pulled Margaret into a hug.
Itll be okay, love. Youre strong.
I owe nobody anything! Victoria suddenly shouted. Hes built another life and now Im supposed to forgive and accept it?
You need to talk to your husband, get the full picture, Margaret advised.
Right now I cant even look at him.
A week passed. They barely spoke. One day Daniel brought the girl home.
Come in, love, this is where youll be staying now. And this is Victoria Clarke, your second mum.
Victoria clenched her fists but forced a smile.
Nice to meet you.
The girl looked at her with the same blue eyes as Daniel an exact copy.
Me too. I hope we can become friends.
Emily was polite and bright. In a few weeks Victoria settled into the routine with her. With Daniel, she stayed icy.
A few days later Victoria filed for divorce. Margaret stood by her.
Id have done the same, Margaret admitted.
Emily was devastated. Victoria decided to talk to her.
Emily, please, lets talk.
The girl broke down.
Mum, dont go. I love you.
Victoria held her tight.
Me too, love.
The next morning Victoria went into Emilys room.
Get up. Well have breakfast and then head out.
Where to?
Surprise.
Twenty minutes later they were walking down the street.
Where are we?
Victoria stopped and smiled.
Were going to see your mum. Were buying flowers and thanking her for you.
Emily hugged her tightly.
