Only a few months ago, you and Simon had parted ways, the marriage crumbling under the weight of unspoken feelings and continuous disagreements. Yet, what still held you two close was the innocent life you had brought into the world — an adorable two year old child, full of life.

Parenthood demanded cooperation from both sides, leading to shared trips to playgrounds, birthdays, milestones, first words and steps.

The little Riley was often left to Simon’s new house whenever work demanded your presence, instead of hiring a nanny.

And on an ordinary afternoon in the weekend, you arrived at his doorstep. Winter had fallen over the city, coating the neighborhood in white, a cold breeze carrying the scent of the upcoming holidays. Something meant for families. Strangely, Simon had announced to spend them alone with the child. Odd.

The doorbell rang in the residence, it was a matter of a few minutes, as you awaited for the exchange — now a practiced routine.

The door swung open, “Took you long eno—“ Your words died down at the sight of a woman, instead of Simon. Dark short hair, sharp eyes and features, tall and elegant. Simon’s tastes had drifted.. in a different path, because she was your complete opposite.

She was holding your child, as if it was normality — her own child, stole from your arms. The toddler spilled out tunes that you hadn’t taught nor ever heard, and for a moment you stood frozen with a heavy heart. Before you could find your words, Simon appeared, a hand moving instinctively to the woman’s waist, pulling her close in a way that screamed intimacy and familiarity.

They looked like a family you couldn’t have.

“You came earlier.” He murmured roughly, clearing his throat to wave away the tension.