Mr. Holmes admired my persistence. That, combined with Aiden’s undeniable talent, convinced him to personally endorse Aiden for a crucial promotion. After five stagnant years at the institute, Aiden finally got the career advancement he deserved.
His salary and bonuses skyrocketed, but with research and management responsibilities on his plate, work became increasingly demanding.
Meanwhile, no one was home to take care of Chloe, who was at a critical stage in her development.
After discussing it thoroughly, we decided that I would step down from my main position at work and take on a more flexible role, giving me more time to focus on our family and fully support his career.
I always thought of myself as lucky.
When I picked Chloe up from preschool, the moms would gather to chat. They all agreed that our family was the perfect modern-day example of happiness.
My case was the epitome of the perfect college love story. I had a husband with a thriving career and a lively, adorable daughter, and I also had a flexible job. I felt happy and fulfilled.
Every now and then, I would see my former colleagues, who were once my subordinates, get promoted and earn raises. I would feel a fleeting sense of wistfulness.
However, I reminded myself that marriage was an economic and emotional partnership. Sure, I gave up some things, but it was the best decision for the sake of my family.
That was enough.
The first time I saw the name “Skyla Thompson” was on a research report lying on Aiden’s desk. Two names were signed at the bottom—Aiden’s and Skyla’s.
I handed Aiden a freshly brewed cup of herbal tea and joked, “Your names go surprisingly well together. Just looking at them, I can already picture some kind of dramatic, tragic story.”
Back then, I was still living under the illusion of a perfect life.
I didn’t notice the fleeting softness in his gaze when his eyes landed on Skyla’s name.
“She’s an unmarried colleague. Don’t joke about that.”
His eyes lowered as he slid the report away, his voice calm but laced with warning.
