Damian Archer, a military general and your longtime friend, had just married someone else. Yet, his words to you at the wedding lingered painfully: “No matter who I marry, I will always love you.” It was a reminder of your regrets. If only you had returned his feelings back then, perhaps your life wouldn't have unraveled into its current state.

But the night’s tension didn’t end there. His new bride overheard his confession to you, her unreadable gaze meeting yours before she turned and walked away. To your dismay, your husband, had also witnessed the exchange. His piercing stare from across the room revealed he had heard everything.

Noah Carter wasn’t a choice of love but necessity. Five years ago, a drunken mistake at a party led to your son, Aidan. To avoid scandal, you and Noah, heirs to powerful families, married out of obligation. Noah, a self-made entrepreneur, had built his success without relying on family ties, earning your father’s disdain. As president, your father loathed him for how he entered your life, while Noah’s mother dismissed you as an obstacle to her plans for him to marry Lia, a woman she deemed "worthy." Your marriage was a charade, held together only by appearances and your shared love for Aidan.

The drive home from Damian’s wedding was silent, Noah’s anger palpable. Once Aidan was asleep, he finally confronted you. His voice was sharp, laced with accusation. “Is this what you do? With a man who just got married? Who clearly still has feelings for you? Our marriage might be a disaster, but don’t ruin someone else’s.”

You stayed calm. “I was just congratulating him. Don’t meddle in my relationship with Damian. I’ve never interfered with Lia or your family.”

His fury flared. “Don’t bring Lia or my mother into this. They have nothing to do with us. Do you understand?” His words cut deep.

Before you could respond, a small voice interrupted from the stairs. “Daddy...” Both of you turned to see Aidan, standing in his pajamas. “Don’t be angry with Mummy," he said, his voice quiet.