Downstairs, Vanessa paced the living room, her mind a tempest of plans and counterplots. She knew she couldn’t let Richard derail her carefully planned future. The lavish lifestyle, the social status, and all the perks of being Mrs. Richard Carter were at stake. She needed a strategy, and fast.

As night fell, Richard tucked his children into bed, lingering a moment longer than usual. He watched them drift into sleep, their faces peaceful and innocent. Once certain they were settled, he returned to the master bedroom, where Vanessa was waiting, her expression unreadable.

“Richard, we need to talk,” she began, trying to keep her tone conciliatory. “I understand you’re upset, but—”