I can still recall the precise moment when everything fell apart around me. Three months have passed—though it seems like an eternity—since my life took a turn I never anticipated. There was a time when I believed I had everything figured out: a stable job, an exciting engagement, a family that seemed supportive (at least on the surface), and the bright future I had envisioned since my college days. But then, just like that, everything I believed was safe vanished before my eyes.
I was twenty-seven, wearing a ring on my left hand that represented a forever I had been dreaming about since my teenage years. My fiancé, Lucas, and I have been discussing the idea of a spring wedding. He stood tall, possessing a bookish charm that I found quite endearing. We had gone ring shopping together, choosing the perfect band. I believed I understood him just as deeply as I understood myself. I guess I didn’t after all.
The day I shared the news about the baby with Lucas was meant to be a joyful occasion. Two weeks ago, I discovered I was pregnant. At first, I was in shock, but gradually, I began to embrace the idea of becoming a mother. I spent countless nights dreaming of a cozy nursery, filled with the sound of a baby’s laughter, with Lucas right there beside me, helping me navigate it all.
But the moment I shared the news, the spark in his eyes vanished. He looked at me for a moment, his expression unreadable. Then came words I never anticipated: “Are you serious?”“He said it in a way that hurt me deeper than any shout ever could.” I attempted to reassure him, saying that we would sort everything out as a team. I really thought he would be shocked or concerned, but still find a way to comfort and reassure me. He simply mumbled something about needing some space to think. He left my apartment that night and never came back. Messages were left hanging, and calls just went straight to voicemail. Lucas just disappeared on me—my own fiancé.
I kept it to myself. Neither my best friend, nor my family, and certainly not anyone at work. I just couldn’t deal with the sympathy or the endless stream of questions. My dad, Mr. Gallagher, was a well-known businessman in the community. He commanded respect from everyone, but he could come off as intimidating if you crossed him. Alyssa, my older sister, was definitely Dad’s favorite. She was married to Bradley, who, interestingly enough, happened to be my direct boss at the family company. Dad had pretty much handed over the daily management of his businesses to Alyssa and Bradley. He opted for a semi-retirement filled with golf, travel, and treating my mom, Linda, to some wonderful vacations.
I had been working at my dad’s company for five years. I managed mid-level tasks, led a few special projects, and ensured everything ran smoothly in my department. I excelled at my work while making an effort to stay under the radar. Many people thought I was just a pampered “daughter of the CEO,” but I took pride in gaining my colleagues’ respect through hard work, not favoritism.
After Lucas vanished, I found it impossible to face Dad, Alyssa, or anyone else in the family; the embarrassment was just too much to handle. And then… there was a much bigger secret I had been keeping. Well, it turns out that the baby in my belly might not actually belong to Lucas at all. The secret felt like a heavy burden I couldn’t shake: I had a nagging suspicion that the father was none other than Bradley, my sister’s husband and my own boss, following a single drunken slip-up at last December’s Christmas party.
I could barely wrap my head around it. It was one of those wild nights, filled with too many cocktails and flashing lights. The next morning, I woke up feeling disoriented, my head pounding. I could barely recall stumbling into a side office, struggling with a door lock, and then… everything after that was just a blur in my mind. Bradley had been acting oddly around me for days after that, but we both just went on as if nothing had happened. Part of me held onto the hope that perhaps it never really did. I kept convincing myself that Lucas had to be the father, considering we had been close during that period as well. However, the timeline just didn’t seem to fit. Somewhere inside, I was afraid that I already understood the truth.
I moved out of Dad’s place and into my own apartment, explaining to everyone that I was just looking to gain some independence. I just couldn’t handle being in the same house as Alyssa, especially with Bradley around all the time, feeling all that guilt weighing on me. In the meantime, Dad appeared pleased that I was forging my own way, but he urged me to stay with the company. I ended up steering clear of family gatherings, passing on weekend lunches, and coming up with excuses. I managed to keep the pregnancy a secret for as long as I could—luckily, I wasn’t really showing yet. Some of my coworkers would sometimes tease me about looking a bit tired or mention that I had put on a little weight, but I just let it slide.
Life went on—until that fateful day when everything erupted in the most disastrous manner. It began like any other morning: I picked up my coffee from my go-to café, preparing myself for the staff meeting that Bradley had scheduled for later in the morning. These company-wide briefings were pretty routine: updates on sales, upcoming projects, and perhaps a motivational speech. Typically, they were dry yet harmless. Today would show a different story.
As I stepped into the conference room, I could feel a strange tension hanging in the air. Bradley sat at the head of the table, rhythmically tapping a pen against his palm. Alyssa was absent, which was unusual since she usually showed up for these larger meetings. Around me, about fifteen colleagues found their seats, engaging in friendly conversation. I attempted to soothe the turmoil churning in my stomach.
Bradley started the meeting, quickly going through the numbers with a sense of urgency and impatience. After twenty minutes, he stopped and shot me a smug grin I’d never encountered before—like he was just waiting to catch me off guard. Then he finally spoke up:
“Tessa,” I said, “I hear congratulations are in order.” I heard the news—you’re expecting! So, I see you’re finally putting down some roots, huh?”
Every muscle in my body tensed up. A handful of people chuckled uncomfortably. A quiet fell over the table. My cheeks turned warm. It was meant to be a secret, something only I was supposed to carry. A week ago, I had to share the news of my pregnancy with Bradley. As my direct boss, it was important to let him know so I could start planning for my upcoming maternity leave. I had made him promise to keep it quiet, and he had said yes. What’s the reason for him making this announcement in public right now?
“So…” he said, leaning back and crossing his arms, “have you figured out who the father is yet, or is it still a mystery?””
That line hit me hard, like a punch to the gut. A burst of laughter from a few younger colleagues faded away as they picked up on my embarrassment. My heart raced. I felt like crawling under the table and disappearing completely.
“I—” I hesitated, my words caught in my throat. Bradley’s smirk widened. He tapped his knuckles on the table, looking around at everyone in the room.
“Looks like we might have to consider giving Tessa a baby bonus, everyone.” He pretended to ponder the idea. “Single moms receive good benefits these days, don’t they?” How about considering a $500 annual raise for each child growing up without a father?“
That was all there was to it. My eyes were on the verge of overflowing with tears. I tightened my fists, trying hard to keep my cool. I sprang up from my chair, ready to storm out, when the double doors burst open with a loud bang. I leaped, and everyone around me did the same.
A young woman, probably around twenty-two, walked in with a baby cradled in her arms. She shook with emotion, tears running down her face, yet her eyes burned with a fierce resolve. Alyssa was right behind her, and trailing behind them was Mr. Gallagher—my dad. The mood in the conference room dropped to an icy chill. Bradley’s face turned white, as if he had just encountered a ghost. Half the staff glanced around, clearly puzzled.
Dad looked around the room, his normally calm expression twisted with frustration. “Nobody leaves,” he shouted, his voice resonating through the room. “Let’s have a conversation right here and now, and I want all of you to be a part of it.”
Bradley took a deep breath and swallowed hard. I noticed beads of sweat beginning to gather at his temples. Alyssa approached him, her face a storm of emotions. “Hey there, darling. What’s happening?”“Bradley asked, attempting to keep it casual, but his voice ended up sounding a bit squeaky.”
“What’s going on,” Alyssa said coldly, “is that your secrets are about to be exposed.”
I saw the woman with the baby. Megan used to be Alyssa’s personal assistant. I had crossed paths with her a few times and thought she appeared kind, though a bit reserved. She left her position suddenly a few months ago, mentioning personal reasons. As I looked into her eyes and saw the tears welling up, a heavy realization washed over me—I finally grasped the reason behind her pain. I felt a knot of anxiety twist in my stomach.
Dad shut the door and settled himself at the head of the table, giving me a quick look. My hands trembled as I struggled to pull my coat tighter around my waist. I wasn’t showing yet, but the chatter about my situation had already started, and now the man who was responsible for this was right here, on the verge of uncovering all my hidden truths. I hoped for a miracle to simply disappear. But no—there was simply no way out.
“Bradley,” my father started, his voice tight, “I’ve had a feeling something wasn’t right for months, ever since Tessa moved out and Megan suddenly quit.”
Bradley’s eyes widened as they scanned the surroundings. “Sir,” he faltered, “I—I really don’t know what you mean.”
Alyssa interrupted him. “Yes, you do.” She looked over at Megan, who was sniffing and gently rocking her baby. Megan decided to leave this company because of you. You got her pregnant and then asked her to stay silent, offering her hush money in return.
A collective gasp filled the air. I almost fell over. Does that mean… Bradley is the father of Megan’s child? However, the baby in Megan’s arms seemed to be at least a few months old. I was completely lost in a whirlwind of timeline confusion. Did he really cheat on Alyssa that long ago?
Megan took a step forward, her tears flowing down her cheeks. “You promised you’d take care of me and our daughter,” she cried, gazing at Bradley. “You cut me off, stopped taking my calls, and told me to resign for ‘health reasons.’ After our baby was born, you never responded.”
Bradley’s lips parted in silence, the color fading from his face. Staff members gathered around the table, whispering in a flurry of anxious conversation. Some looked on with disdain. Dad’s eyes burned with anger. “You had a child with Alyssa’s assistant?”“He growled.” “So, you tried to keep it a secret?””
Alyssa’s voice trembled as she looked at me. “But that’s not the only baby he’s fathered outside of marriage, is it, Tessa?””
I stood still, my heart racing wildly. This was the moment I had been fearing. People nearby turned their eyes toward me.
“I—I’m not sure,” I managed to say. “I was thinking—”
“Tessa,” Alyssa said softly, her voice barely above a whisper, “I found your diary.” After you moved out of Dad’s house, you left it tucked away in your old bedroom, hidden beneath some pillows. “I didn’t mean to snoop, but while I was cleaning, I came across it.” Her voice shook with a mix of anger and sadness as she spoke. “In your previous entries, you shared all about that wild Christmas party, the chaos that followed the next day, and your doubts about whether the baby could be Bradley’s.”
My eyes brimmed with tears. “Alyssa,” I said softly, “I’m really sorry. It was just one night. <text“I—I can’t even recall half of it.”
She let out a fragile laugh, her own eyes glistening with tears. “Bradley, you mentioned that Tessa’s baby was Lucas’s, her fiancé who disappeared.” But it’s really you, isn’t it? <text”You are the father of Tessa’s child, just as you are the father of Megan’s.”
Bradley stammered, his arms waving around as he searched for an explanation. The whole staff was completely silent, taking in the drama like an audience watching a particularly bizarre soap opera. Dad let out an angry growl. “Please explain yourself, Bradley.” At this moment.
Bradley’s brow was dotted with glistening beads of sweat. He glanced around at Alyssa, Megan, me, and Dad, as if hoping to find even a hint of sympathy that just wasn’t there. At last, he muttered something about how he “had no idea what he was doing that night” with me, claiming it was just a drunken mistake. He said he had intended to come clean eventually, but then Alyssa found out about Megan’s pregnancy first, and everything just went haywire.
It felt like a weight on my chest when he confirmed it. I suppose a part of me wished I could be mistaken, that the baby actually belonged to Lucas. But deep down, I had always known. Now everyone else was in the loop as well, thanks to this embarrassing public confrontation.
Dad’s voice sliced through the tension sharply. “You two-timing snake,” he hissed at Bradley. “You got two women pregnant—my daughter and her assistant?” So you played with their feelings, making Tessa look foolish in front of everyone at work?”
Bradley trembled, his gaze darting over to Alyssa. “Sweetheart, please,” he started. “I can take care of this.”
She lifted a hand, her expression unyielding. “Please don’t call me honey.” “I’m finished, Bradley.”
Megan gently moved ahead, holding her baby tightly against her. She cast a sorrowful, regretful look at Alyssa. “I’m sorry, Mrs. Gallagher,” she said gently. “I… I never meant to destroy your marriage.” He spun a web of lies, assuring me he would be there for me.
Alyssa felt tears streaming down her cheeks. “I understand, Megan.” You were just as much a victim as Tessa was.
Dad cleared his throat, his eyes darting around the room, taking in everyone. Then he announced, “Bradley, from this moment on, you’re fired.” “Gather your things, get out of my sight, and don’t come back here again.” He shot a look filled with a chilling anger that I had never witnessed Dad direct at anyone in our family.
Bradley started to speak up in disagreement. Dad interrupted him with a quick wave of his hand. “You will also be responsible for paying child support for both children—Megan and Tessa.” <text”If you think you can escape your responsibilities, I promise you’ll regret it for the rest of your days.”
The silence that enveloped the conference room felt heavy and oppressive. A few staff members quietly collected their notes while Dad gestured for them to leave, signaling that the meeting was effectively over. People walked out in a daze, avoiding eye contact with me.
I stood there, shaking, my thoughts in a whirlwind. Alyssa looked at me, her expression a tangled web of betrayal and heartbreak. For a moment, I was afraid she might hit me. Instead, she took an action that completely caught me off guard. She wrapped her arms around me in a warm embrace. It wasn’t exactly a warm, loving hug, but it was tight, as if she were trying to hold on to something solid. I collapsed into her shoulder, tears streaming down my face.
She released a trembling breath. “Tessa, you really should have told me,” she said softly. “I just want you to know that I’m not upset with you.” I’m really angry with him. He tricked us both.
My dad walked over gradually. “Tessa,” he said, his voice softer than I felt I warranted, “why didn’t you reach out to me when you first discovered?”“
I wiped my face, trying to hold back the tears. “I felt so ashamed, Dad.” I just couldn’t bear the idea of causing Alyssa any pain or disappointing you. Tears welled up again, ready to spill over. “I figured that if I claimed it was Lucas’s baby, I might be able to hide the truth.”
Dad shook his head, his anger giving way to a deep sadness. “You are my daughter, Tessa.” “I would never abandon you,” he said, gazing at Alyssa. “We’re all in this together.” “We need to stay united, regardless of how chaotic things become.”
Alyssa gave a firm nod. Almost as if it just occurred to her, she glanced over at Megan. “I’m really sorry you had to go through all of that, Megan.” How are you doing?“
Megan nodded, her eyes glistening with tears. “I think I’ll be alright, I suppose.” “Thank you for giving me the chance to share,” she said, looking my way. “I’m really sorry about what you’re going through, Tessa.”
I managed to give a faint, appreciative smile. “We never wanted any of this,” I murmured. “We’ll find a way.”
Dad cleared his throat once more. Megan, you can be confident that you’ll receive the financial and legal support you require. My attorneys will take care of Bradley’s responsibilities.
She whispered her gratitude and then slipped away softly, the baby peacefully sleeping in her embrace.
The air hung heavy in the almost-empty conference room, creating a moment of stillness that felt almost tangible. Alyssa slowly released her grip on me and took a step back. Her cheeks shone with tears, yet she stood tall, determination in her stance. “I’m divorcing him,” she said quietly. “He ruined our marriage.”
I swallowed hard, the heaviness of guilt settling in my chest. “I’m here for you in any way you need,” I said, even though I understood it wouldn’t heal the pain she was experiencing.
She nodded, her expression tired and worn. “We’ll figure it out, Tessa.” With that, she grabbed her purse, lifted her chin, and stepped out alongside Dad. Before he left, Dad looked at me and said, “Stay here.” “I’ll catch up with you in a few minutes.”
Consequences
I stumbled back to my desk, feeling a bit lost in thought. Coworkers who had been in the meeting steered clear of eye contact, or attempted to offer me looks of sympathy. I stuffed a few papers into a drawer, hoping to distract myself from the mess that had just happened. But images raced through my mind: Bradley’s smug grin from earlier, the fear etched on Megan’s face, Alyssa’s tears, and Dad’s furious expression. My stomach twisted with nausea and a flood of emotions.
After about thirty minutes, Dad summoned me to his office—Bradley’s former office. He sat behind the imposing mahogany desk. I closed the door softly behind me. He inhaled deeply. “Take a seat, Tessa.” I did as I was told, feeling a bit anxious.
He leaned in, intertwining his fingers. “I apologize for how everything turned out, but I feel a sense of relief that the truth is finally out there.” For months now, you’ve been carrying this heavy cloud of shame.
I looked down at my hands. “Absolutely.”
He let out a deep sigh. “With that in mind, we should determine our next steps.” Bradley’s not here anymore. I’ve let him go.
I nodded, feeling a sense of numbness wash over me. “I understand.”
Dad looked around the office. “He abandoned many projects, leaving employees feeling uncertain.” “I need someone who’s both capable and trustworthy to take charge.” He looked directly at me. “I want you to take on the role of interim director, Tessa.”
I couldn’t believe my eyes. “Are you talking about me?”“
He gave a nod. “You really know how things work around here. After five years, you’re practically family, and I trust you way more than anyone else.”
I released a shaky breath. “Dad, I have some news… I’m pregnant…”
He offered a faint smile. “What’s up?” Pregnant women can absolutely still lead, right? Unless you’re saying you’re not interested in the role.
He spoke not with a scolding tone, but rather with a sense of encouragement. A mix of emotions stirred within me. Am I capable of managing a department (or even the whole branch) while pregnant and navigating the controversy surrounding my baby’s paternity? Yet, I found myself in a position where I had to reclaim my dignity and show that I wasn’t merely a helpless fool. Maybe taking on Bradley’s role was an opportunity for me to make things right.
“Are you really sure about this, Dad?”“I asked gently.” “Some might say it’s all about nepotism or that you’re just feeling sorry for me—”
He shook his head with determination. “I really don’t care what they say.” You have what it takes. Also, I won’t be here indefinitely, and this company could benefit from new leadership. Alyssa is going through her own heartbreak. “We can’t count on her at the moment.” His voice became gentler. “Give yourself a moment to reflect, but don’t overthink it.”
I took a deep breath and swallowed. “Alright.”
“We’ll go over the details shortly,” he mentioned. He got up, walked around the desk, and placed a hand on my shoulder. “You have so much strength, Tessa.” More than you think. Don’t allow shame or fear to keep you from moving forward.
I felt tears welling up in my eyes once more. “Thanks, Dad.”
He offered me a brief, reassuring squeeze before heading out, likely to see how Alyssa was doing.
Facing Rebecca
That evening, I called Alyssa—originally, she was named “Rebecca,” but we decided to change it to Alyssa. After a few rings, she finally picked up, her voice heavy with fatigue. “Hey Tessa, how’s it going?”
I let out a breath. “I just wanted to check in and see how you’re doing.”
A brief moment of silence. “I’m… alright, I suppose.” I’ve filed for divorce. Bradley’s off to a hotel somewhere. My lawyers are putting together the terms.
I bit my lip, feeling the tears welling up inside me. “I really feel for you, Alyssa. I’m truly sorry you’re facing this.”
Her voice faltered. “Thanks, Tessa. I really appreciate it.” But please, don’t be too hard on yourself. We both know that Bradley played us.
I felt a tightness in my chest. “Yeah, but I still allowed it to happen.”
She let out a deep sigh. “What’s done is done.” Right now, my only option is to keep moving ahead. “Dad’s definitely got my back.”
We fell into silence. Finally, Alyssa asked, “So, what about you?” Hey, are you doing alright?”
I nearly chuckled at the question, since it was clear that I wasn’t okay at all. But I replied, “I’m managing.” My dad asked me to take over Bradley’s role. I believe I’m going to go for it.
Alyssa let out a nervous chuckle. “That’s so typical of Dad—always pushing ahead with his business choices.” Perhaps this is for the best. At least we know the job is in good hands.
I nervously played with the cord of my phone. “Alyssa…” I said softly. “We never had a chance to discuss… the baby.”
She paused in silence for a moment. “Tessa, I have to say, I’m not exactly happy about how I found out who the father is, but let’s be clear—it’s not the baby’s fault.” “If you ever need assistance or just want my company, I’ll be there for you.”
New tears began to form. “Really? You will?””
“We’re sisters,” she said with a straightforward tone. “Even though we’re in pain, it’s important that we stand united.”
I felt a deep sense of gratitude wash over me. “I appreciate it.”
A Fresh Chapter in the Workplace
In the coming week, I made up my mind to take Dad’s offer. I felt a bit uncertain about how the staff would respond, but I prepared myself for the inevitable chatter. On Monday morning, Dad called a brief company-wide meeting to share the news that Bradley was no longer with the business and that I, Tessa Gallagher, would be taking over as interim director. A scattered round of applause filled the air, but a few employees shifted uncomfortably, fully aware of the ongoing scandal.
I stepped up to the small podium in the breakroom to share a few thoughts: “I realize the past few weeks have been… quite turbulent. I want you all to know that I’m dedicated to leading this team with integrity and respect. “We’ll get through this transition together.” My voice trembled slightly, but I managed to put on a smile. Some people nodded, while others shared warm, encouraging smiles.
I fully committed myself to the new role. I began my day earlier than usual and wrapped things up later on. I went through the pile of proposals that Bradley had left, reorganized the tasks, and assigned projects to the right managers. In the meantime, I balanced doctor appointments for my pregnancy, frequently booking them during lunchtime to avoid drawing attention or missing important work hours. The pressure was overwhelming, yet strangely, it prevented my thoughts from sinking into despair.
There were moments when I noticed employees glancing at my stomach, almost as if they were anticipating it to suddenly burst out. A handful of courageous friends offered me quiet congratulations, expressing their sympathy for the mess with Bradley. I figured out how to manage it with a courteous nod and a quick shift in conversation. I aimed to maintain a professional atmosphere, avoiding any inappropriate conversations.
Alyssa was always friendly, stopping by my office from time to time. She would check in to see if I needed anything or share her thoughts on the divorce proceedings. She was resolute in her choice to remove Bradley from her life. Megan got in touch a couple of times to share that her baby was doing well, but she mentioned that money was a bit tight for them. Dad promised me he would take care of her legal fees so that child support would come from Bradley. It was a bit of a jumble, but every day we kept pushing ahead.
By the time dinner rolled around, I was completely worn out at home. There were moments when I’d just collapse onto the couch, lose myself in mindless TV, and allow the tears to fall for a bit—longing for the future I had envisioned with Lucas, yearning for the innocence I used to possess. But then I’d rest my hand on my belly, feeling the new life blossoming within, and I’d promise myself to be strong.
One evening, as my first month as interim director was winding down, Dad asked me to join him for a quiet dinner at his home. He continued to reside in the large family mansion with Mom, even though they frequently went on trips. He assured her it would be a relaxed chat between father and daughter. I showed up feeling a little on edge, but as soon as we got comfortable at the kitchen table—just the two of us with a pot of homemade stew—my anxiety faded away.
“How’s work going for you, Tessa?”“Dad asked, as he stirred sugar into his tea.
I just shrugged. “I have a lot on my plate, but I’m handling it.”
He gave a nod. “Everyone keeps telling me you’re doing amazing.” Productivity is on the rise, and morale remains strong.
A tiny spark of pride flickered in my chest. “I appreciate it.”
He cleared his throat, preparing to speak. “How are you feeling about your pregnancy? How’s your body holding up, and how are you feeling emotionally?””
I placed my spoon on the table. “Exhausted.” There are days when everything feels like too much, but I’m working on taking things one step at a time.
Dad leaned over the table and gave my hand a gentle pat. “You know, Tessa, I really am proud of you.”
That straightforward remark almost brought me to tears. Dad was never really around much; he was always caught up in his work, building his empire. Our father-daughter relationship was never the closest. When he said he was proud, it meant more to me than I could ever put into words.
He went on, “I understand you’ve experienced heartbreak, and I realize that Bradley put you in a really tough situation.” Yet this child… remains a blessing. We’re here for you, always.
I held back tears, struggling to keep it together. “I appreciate it, Dad.” Thank you so much for that.
He nodded briefly. With his usual practical approach, he remarked, “Now, let’s talk about maternity leave…” and jumped right into the specifics of how we’d manage coverage. I smiled even as tears fell, feeling thankful that we were working through it all with a good attitude.
A SURPRISING NOTE
A few days later, while I was cleaning up my desk before leaving for the day, my cellphone buzzed with a call from an unknown number. I thought about just leaving it there, but something inside me urged me to grab it.
“Hi there?””
A moment of uncertainty. Then a guy’s voice called out, “Hey, Tessa.” “It’s… Lucas.”
My heart skipped a beat. Lucas—my missing fiancé. Emotions surged through me: anger, sadness, longing, and resentment. After a brief pause, I replied, “Lucas.” Incredible! “I honestly didn’t expect to hear from you again.”
He let out a breath. “I apologize for disappearing.” I was really scared. The news about the pregnancy… it really frightened me.
I couldn’t help but let out a bitter laugh. “Do you really think I wasn’t scared as well?””
He let out a deep sigh. “Hey, I just want to say that I’m really feeling terrible right now.” I’d really like to see you and have a proper conversation. Perhaps we can work things out?“
A whirlwind of uncertainty twisted in my gut. I had spent weeks blaming him for leaving me behind. So now he wants to return? Ironically, he wasn’t even the baby’s father, though he was completely unaware of that fact. “Lucas,” I said gently, “it’s not simple.”
“We’ll work it out,” he said with determination. “I truly love you, Tessa.” I totally freaked out. How about we grab a coffee together?”
I paused for a moment. Is it even worth my time? I couldn’t help but wonder if closure was really something I could achieve. Another part thought it was a waste of time—he had shown he wasn’t dependable. Still, I decided to meet him, both to have the final say and to make sure that any remaining fantasies I had about him were completely shattered.
We decided to meet on a Saturday morning at a cozy café by the river. I got there ahead of time and chose a table outside to avoid feeling trapped. When Lucas arrived, I felt a catch in my breath. He appeared more slender, his hair a bit tousled, and his face carried a tired look. He walked over, his hands buried deep in his pockets.
“Tessa,” he breathed out, his voice barely above a whisper. “You look great!”
I gave a slight nod. “Thanks.” My coat did a decent job of hiding my pregnancy, but perhaps he noticed the slight curve beneath it. He sat there, nervously playing with the menu. The waitress approached our table, we placed our order for coffee, and suddenly, an uneasy tension filled the air between us.
He cleared his throat. “So… how far along are you at this point?”“
I took a deep breath. “It’s been nearly four months.”
He gave a slow nod. “I suppose you’re revealing a bit.”
“Sure,” I replied. I watched him closely, weighing the decision of whether to reveal the truth—that he wasn’t the father. Ultimately, I came to the conclusion that being honest was the right choice. “Lucas, regarding the baby…”
He interrupted me, leaning in closer. “Tessa, if you’ll take me back, I promise I’ll do better this time.” I’ll be there for you and the little one. “I took some time to think things over, but I’m prepared now to make the right choice.”
I felt a sharp twinge of guilt wash over me. He felt compelled to do the right thing, oddly enough, for a child who wasn’t his own. “Lucas,” I started softly, “I really appreciate that you’re making an effort.” “But… this child doesn’t belong to you.”
He stood still, his brow furrowing. “Can you clarify what you mean?””
I felt tears welling up in my eyes. “I had a… I made a mistake at a Christmas party.” We were both tipsy, me and—another person. And that’s who the dad is.
His face shifted from confusion to pain, and then to anger. “Did you really cheat on me?””
I just shrugged, feeling a bit lost. “Yes, but it wasn’t something I meant to do or had in mind.” “We were both drunk.” I gulped. “I kept telling myself it could still be your baby, but the timing just didn’t add up.” I truly apologize.
He let out a sharp breath, leaning back and crossing his arms. “This is… wow.” He let out a bitter laugh. “Looks like I managed to escape a tough situation by walking away, huh?”
A sharp pain shot through me. “I suppose so.” And then, silence. “I never meant to hurt you, Lucas.”
He shook his head and stood up suddenly. “Good luck with that,” he said, tossing a few bills onto the table next to his untouched coffee. “I’m done with this.” With that, he turned and left. The closure I had been looking for felt empty. At least the truth finally came to light.
I sat there for a while, letting the tears fall, trying to block out the curious looks from those walking by. Yet another chapter has come to an end. Bradley, the man my sister married, is the father of my baby. And Lucas, my former fiancé, was truly gone for good. Yet, strangely enough, I experienced a peculiar sense of relief. It’s time to face the truth, no more pretending, no more half-truths.
Progressing Ahead
I poured all my energy into the job. Over time, people began to accept me in my role as the interim director. Even with the scandal, the company continued to run without a hitch. I took great pleasure in tackling challenges, mentoring newer team members, and keeping our financial goals in check. Dad and Alyssa would drop by now and then for updates, and every visit brought us a sense of healing as we worked together to keep the family business thriving.
One day, Megan stopped by the office with her baby girl, who was about six months old at the time. She thanked me quietly for how everything unfolded—for Dad’s legal assistance, for the severance she got from Bradley, which enabled her to pursue a better job. She was realistic about co-parenting with Bradley, but at least her daughter would receive some child support.
Watching Megan with her baby and listening to those gentle coos only deepened my excitement for the arrival of my own little one. I asked Megan how she was holding up, and she told me it was challenging but definitely worth it. Even with all the pain, she cherished her little one. It made me realize that regardless of how a child enters this world, the love we offer them can truly be genuine.
At five months pregnant, my baby bump finally started to show. While most of the office maintained a respectful atmosphere, there were certainly a few gossips who couldn’t resist whispering about the father. Alyssa and I found a deeper connection again—she welcomed me to her new townhouse after selling the old marital home, and we enjoyed sisterly chats, sharing our thoughts and venting about life. At times, she found herself in tears over Bradley’s betrayal, longing for a chance to turn back the clock. At times, she would let out a bitter laugh, reminiscing about how she once believed she had the ideal marriage. After every conversation, we made a promise to support one another, regardless of how complicated the situations that brought us together might be.
A memorable moment was when Dad hosted a little baby shower for me at the company lounge. The atmosphere was quite low-key, with mostly women from the workplace and a few familiar faces from the past. The decorations featured soft pastel blues and yellows, as I hadn’t revealed the baby’s gender yet. As I unwrapped each gift—those adorable tiny onesies and sweet diaper sets—I couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed with emotion. I came to understand that even without the father around, this child would still have a loving extended family: my dad, mom, sister, and, I hope, my unwavering love as well.
As I approached the end of my pregnancy, I started to train my subordinate managers to take care of the daily tasks. Dad was adamant that after I had the baby, I could take some time off for maternity leave. He even suggested that if I wanted to stay on as director afterward, the role would be mine. The board came to a consensus—my performance had gone above and beyond what they anticipated. That understanding ignited a glimmer of hope for my child’s future. As a single mom, I refuse to be helpless or without a job.
One afternoon, Alyssa invited me to lunch at a charming little bistro in the heart of downtown. She appeared glowing in a plain white blouse and jeans, as though she had finally released the weight of being Bradley’s wife. As we enjoyed our salads, we talked about the baby that’s on the way. She wanted to know if I was going to reach out to Bradley regarding the birth.
I shook my head in disbelief. “He hasn’t reached out, not even once.” If he wants updates, he can reach out to his lawyers.
She gave a nod. “I get it.” We’ll sort out the legal details. But I want you to know, Tessa, if you’d like me to be involved as an aunt—or in some unconventional co-parenting way—I’m here for you.
My eyes welled up. “Thank you.” “That means a lot.” The situation with my child having an aunt who was once married to their father was incredibly complicated, but I believed in Alyssa’s genuine intentions. She decided to direct her anger towards Bradley instead of me.
Time passed quickly. My belly grew rounder, my ankles puffed up, and each kick from the baby served as a daily reminder of the beautiful gift—and the challenges—that were on the horizon. I went to childbirth classes, occasionally with Alyssa and other times with a high school friend. I transformed my spare bedroom into a nursery, complete with whimsical murals that bring it to life. Every brushstroke felt like taking back control of my life.
As I approached the final weeks of my pregnancy, Dad summoned me to the boardroom to nail down the details of my maternity leave plan. With the backing of encouraging board members, he acknowledged my leadership during the past six months and appreciated how I handled both personal and professional challenges with poise. I sat there, tears streaming down my face, overwhelmed by a feeling of redemption after all the pain I had endured.
On a fresh morning in early spring, the baby made their entrance into the world. My contractions began in the early morning hours, and by noon, I found myself at the hospital, focusing on my breathing to manage the pain. Dad and Alyssa hurried to be with me, and Mom came rushing back from her weekend spa getaway as soon as she got the news. The labor was tough, but after hours of effort, I welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world. As soon as the doctor handed her to me, all the regret, betrayal, and shame faded away. What was left was nothing but love for this little life. She had a tuft of dark hair, strong lungs from her first cry, and a perfect little face that I could have gazed at for an eternity.
Alyssa glanced into the room, her eyes shimmering with tears. “Tessa, she’s truly beautiful.” “Congratulations!” We both cried, embracing softly around the baby. Dad stood in the doorway, his expression a mix of emotion that he was clearly trying to hide behind a steady nod. He pressed a gentle kiss to my forehead, murmuring, “I’m so proud of you, baby girl.”
I chose the name “Aurora” for my daughter, representing a fresh start for our family. In the days that followed my time in the hospital, I was touched by visits from coworkers who came bearing flowers and kind words, putting aside any past scandal that had once loomed over me. Megan sent a lovely card along with a cute plush toy, expressing her hope that our kids would get to meet one day. Even though we had the same father for our children, I felt a strange bond with her.
Bradley just didn’t show up—no calls, no texts, not even an email. Dad said that Bradley was frequently in court dealing with a complicated divorce from Alyssa, along with child support issues for both Megan and me. It hurt that he wouldn’t recognize Aurora, but I came to understand that both Aurora and I were better off without his negativity. Maybe we should establish official paternity and child support arrangements. But deep down, I was finished with him.
After I was discharged, I began to embrace my new role as a mom. Feeling exhausted from late-night feedings and surrounded by piles of laundry, I found myself overwhelmed, yet I cherished every single moment. My dad set up a nanny for me in case I ever needed some extra support, but I usually got by just fine with Alyssa stopping by often. My mom, Linda, really came through for me. She brought over some delicious homemade casseroles and even offered to babysit so I could catch up on some much-needed sleep. Gradually, the sting of the scandal began to fade. My parents, sister, and I grew closer, committed to shielding Aurora from any negativity.
A few weeks after giving birth, Dad softly brought up the topic of the job. “When you’re ready, Tessa, we’d love to have you back.” I made the choice to come back after a three-month maternity leave—just the right amount of time to heal and connect with Aurora. Having the assurance that my job was stable brought me a sense of calm, knowing I could take care of my child as a single mother.
On a warm summer morning, I secured Aurora in a baby carrier and set off to the office for a brief visit. This was the first time I brought her in. Employees gathered around us, admiring her delicate little features. I felt a sense of pride, not shame, that this precious baby belonged to me. The chatter had quieted down, giving way to real respect for the way I faced challenges.
As soon as I stepped into Dad’s private office, he got to his feet. “Just look at my granddaughter,” he exclaimed, gently cradling her in his arms. “She’s got your eyes, Tessa.” A smile spread across my face, and I felt tears welling up in my eyes. “I really appreciate everything, Dad,” I said softly. He smiled brightly, pressing a gentle kiss on Aurora’s forehead.
At 27, life didn’t unfold as I had envisioned, but strangely enough, it felt more genuine now. The dreams of a flawless fiancé, a stress-free job, and an easygoing life—those dreams have vanished. In their absence, I discovered a richer understanding of myself, a dedication to being a resilient mother, a strengthened bond with Alyssa, and a father who provided steadfast support.
After that café meeting, I never saw Lucas again. He did send a text once, apologizing for losing his cool. I told him there were no hard feelings and that I truly hoped he would find peace in his life. We said our final goodbyes.
What about Bradley? He lingered like a specter. I had my lawyers take care of the paternity and child support claims. At first, he resisted the idea, but the DNA test confirmed that Aurora was indeed his daughter. The court ordered monthly support payments. However, my father’s staff made sure that he couldn’t reach out to me directly. I never meant to deceive Aurora about her father when she’s old enough to inquire, but I also can’t soften the reality that he chose to leave.
As the months passed, Aurora transformed from a delicate newborn into a cheerful infant, full of wonder and curiosity. I juggled remote work while being a mom, and then gradually returned to the office on a part-time basis. I believe my employees had more respect for me as they watched me handle my responsibilities with integrity. The mess that nearly overwhelmed me turned into a powerful reminder of my strength to bounce back.
One afternoon, as Aurora slept peacefully in her portable crib in my office, I found myself reflecting on how just three months prior, I felt like my world was falling apart. My fiancé walked out on me, I discovered that the father of my baby is actually my sister’s husband, and to top it all off, I was humiliated during a staff meeting. Yet, from those ashes, I emerged. I grew stronger, carving out a new direction for myself. I found out just how deep my family’s love runs, even in the face of betrayal. My father passed on the mantle of leadership to me, my sister chose to forgive and stay in my life, and I discovered a deep sense of purpose in being a mother.
Of course, there were still times when I felt guilty or sad, particularly during the holidays when that one drunken night would come back to mind. Yet, every day, Aurora’s laughter served as a reminder that from chaos can emerge something truly precious. I felt an overwhelming fullness in my heart.
As I gently rock Aurora to sleep in the serene stillness of the early evening, I come to understand that I am no longer the same woman I used to be. I’ve evolved in ways I never anticipated, shaping a new identity as both a single mom and a business leader. The little one I hold in my arms is a testament to how life can be chaotic and intricate, yet still incredibly beautiful. Despite facing scandal, my family stood by me with steadfast support in the end.
As I stand by the crib, I can’t help but watch Aurora’s eyelids flutter and her tiny fingers curl up. I press my lips to her warm forehead, softly vowing to nurture her with all the love and stability I can offer. I want to show her that mistakes are just part of life and don’t have to shape who we are. I’ll help her understand that family can be chaotic but still incredibly loyal, and that true strength lies not in avoiding failure, but in getting back up every time we stumble.
A soft breeze flows through the window, bringing with it the aromas of the bustling city beyond. I remember the moment I shared the news of my pregnancy with Lucas, the instant he chose to leave, the realization that Bradley was the father, and the time Adam embarrassed me in front of everyone. It’s odd how just one year can be filled with so much pain and discovery. If I could have a conversation with my past self, I would simply say: Just hold on. You can’t even imagine the strength that lies ahead for you.
I really have no idea what the future has in store for me. Romance could find its way back into my life, or perhaps I’ll embrace being single for a bit, dedicating my time to Aurora and my career. Regardless of the situation, I feel a sense of peace. I’ve come to realize that no matter how much life throws us off track, we have the ability to adjust, endure, and even flourish. My baby girl will grow up with a mother who battled for her place in the world, who faced shame and heartbreak to stand strong. That alone is enough to bring a smile to my face, no matter what challenges come my way.
I really like this story. It held my interest to the end!
I too enjoyed today’s story and it also held my interest until the end.