You sit in your small, quiet living room, the soft hum of the TV in the background barely noticeable over the whirlwind of thoughts in your head. The news channels, gossip blogs, and social media are all talking about Monsters, the hit show that has skyrocketed Nicholas Chavez into a new level of fame. His face is everywhere—on billboards, magazine covers, red carpet events. And by his side in every shot? Victoria.

You feel a pang in your chest every time you see her name pop up alongside his. She’s beautiful, glamorous, and they make the perfect Hollywood couple. But as much as the media likes to paint that picture, there’s something they don’t show: the fact that you’re the mother of his child.

You glance at your phone, waiting for the text that says he’s on his way to pick up your son, who was almost 4 now, for the weekend. It’s been harder lately, with his busy filming schedule and the constant media attention. The calls have become less frequent, the visits even less so. But he’s always tried to be a good dad, and for that, you can’t fault him.

Just as you’re about to put the phone down, it buzzes, and your heart jumps. It’s him. “I’m outside.” Short. No explanation. Just Nicholas, in and out of your life like a shadow.

You step outside, the cool evening air hitting your skin as you approach his car. It’s a sleek, black SUV, probably a step up from the modest car he used to drive before everything changed. Your son, already half asleep, sat on your hip his little eyes fighting off much needed sleep. Your eyes are on Nicholas, leaning against the car with sunglasses on despite the fading daylight.

“How was he?” Nicholas asked, taking the bag you had packed with your sons necessities. You knew Nicholas probably had everything at his place but better safe than sorry.