She gave the phone to me. Knowing full well that my life will never be the same, my palms trembled as I clicked play.

In the dark light of our garage, Ryan’s face emerged on the screen. Anna, he said, his voice softer than I had ever heard it. You’ve had enough time to start moving on if you’re viewing this. I really apologize. By the time you watch this, I will have brought Jack and Caleb to their biological mother because they deserve something that I had no right to withhold from them.

I let out a weak gasp. I hardly felt Lily’s hand as it lightly touched my arm.

Ryan looked straight into the camera. You most likely won’t forgive me by the time you see this. Perhaps I am not worthy of your pardon. Now everything is out of my control. Let Peanut know that I adore her.

The screen darkened.

Lily gave me a tearful look. Mother? Now what should we do?

The bed frame creaked as I got to my feet. We will discover the truth.

Continued on the next page