At one point, I noticed his hands. Filthy. I pulled him out and took him inside to wash up. I was about to bring out the cake — I wanted him clean before that.But in the bathroom, he wouldn’t stop laughing.
“What’s so funny?” I asked.
He grinned. “Aunt Ellie has dad,” he said.
Ellie — my best friend since childhood. We grew up together. She’s like a sister to me.
I paused. “Aunt Ellie?” I repeated.
He nodded, completely pleased with himself. “I saw it when I was playing.”
My stomach tightened. “What did you see, Will?”
“Come. I’ll show you.” He grabbed my hand and dragged me back outside.
The party was loud. People talking, music playing, glasses clinking. Will pointed straight at Ellie. “Mom,” he said, loud and proud. “Dad’s there.”
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