As evening fell, Selena's heart swelled with anticipation. For once, the future seemed clear and bright, unmarred by shadows.
The doorbell rang just as Selena was placing plates on the table. Expecting Luke, she smoothed her dress, nerves fizzing with excitement. Instead, a stranger stood on the threshold—a woman, younger perhaps, but her eyes were steeled with purpose, her posture rigid, eyes red-rimmed but fiercely determined. Her coat strained over her swollen belly.
"Are you Selena?" The woman's voice wavered only slightly.
Selena nodded, her smile faltering. "Yes. Can I help you?"
"I'm sorry," the woman said, voice trembling despite her composure. "I'm looking for Luke. I need to talk to him. To you, really."
Selena frowned, concern flickering across her face. "Luke isn't home yet, but you can wait. I'm Selena."
"My name is Mia... I'm carrying Luke's child, and I thought you should know."
Time seemed to freeze. Selena's world narrowed. She clung to the doorframe, words catching in her throat.
Selena's voice was soft, incredulous. "You're... you're pregnant with my husband's baby?"
Mia nodded, her chin lifting in defiance. "I didn't come here to hurt you, but I won't hide anymore. He needs to own up to me and our child."
Selena studied Mia—young, weary, desperate for recognition. A thousand emotions warred within her: shock, rage, heartbreak. But above it all, a strange, calm clarity began to settle over her.
Selena took a long, steadying breath and stepped aside. "Please, come in. You must be cold." Her voice was gentle, belying the tumult inside her chest. Mia hesitated, uncertainty flickering in her eyes, then moved past Selena into the hallway.