Chapter 5

Mark’s POV

Mark returned shortly after midnight, still rehearsing the explanation he would give Claire.

Elena’s daughter had needed him.

The boy had refused to sleep.

He had stayed because leaving them upset would have been cruel.

Claire would understand once he explained it calmly.

The house was dark when he opened the door.

“Claire?”

No one answered.

He turned on the living-room lamp and stopped.

The champagne roses stood in the center of the coffee table. Beside them lay Elena’s card, the $12,800 handbag receipt, and three photographs.

In one, Mark’s arm was around Elena’s waist.

In another, Elena…