Husband's Affair Backfires

Synopsis

The aroma of rosemary and garlic filled our penthouse as I drizzled olive oil over the roasted potatoes. Through the kitchen archway, I could see Leo sprawled on the plush cream carpet, his toy cars racing across an imaginary highway. The setting sun cast golden light across our Manhattan home, highlighting the crystal vase of fresh peonies I'd arranged that morning—James's favorite. Everything was perfect. It had to be. "Vrooom! Crash!" Leo's sound effects echoed through our open-concept living space as I lit the sterling silver candelabra, the flames dancing in the dimming light. "Careful with those cars near the coffee table, sweetheart," I called softly, adjusting the linen napkins. "Dinner's almost ready." I smoothed my hands over the silk blouse I'd chosen specifically for tonight—James had mentioned liking the deep burgundy color against my skin. Fifteen years of marriage, and I still found myself wanting to please him, to maintain the perfect life we'd built together. The elevator chimed, announcing his arrival. My heart quickened as it always did. "Daddy!" Leo abandoned his cars, racing toward the foyer. I heard James's deep laugh, followed by the sound of my son being swept up into his arms. "Hey, champ. Been good for your mother?" "We made cookies!" Leo announced proudly. James appeared in the dining room doorway, our son perched on his hip. His surgeon's hands—hands that saved lives daily—gently ruffled Leo's hair.