1:00 AM.

Lailah Griffith scrolled through her feed and saw Tamara Mosley's latest post.

"Huge thanks to Mr. Walter and Krish for the beautiful gifts! Krish even made this mug himself!"

Lailah tapped the photo—a necklace and a handmade mug.

The faint inscription caught her eye: Happy Birthday, Mom.

Then her gaze shifted to the dining table—cold, untouched dishes and a cake with unlit candles. A wry smile tugged at her lips.

A news update from earlier flashed through her mind, "Breaking: The aloof Zayden Walter from Stomdale is confirmed to be secretly married. And his son is already five years old."

The photo showed Zayden and Tamara walking hand in hand with Krish Walter at an amusement park.

Tamara smiled as she stroked Krish's head. Zayden watched her, his gaze unusually soft and intent.

They looked like a perfect family—a tall, handsome father, an elegant mother, and a cute little boy.

Today was Lailah's birthday.

It was also her fifth wedding anniversary with Zayden.

Yet somehow, the day had been about Tamara.

Krish and Zayden had spent it with her. Even the gifts meant for Lailah had ended up in Tamara's hands.

Lailah wasn't surprised. She had learned not to be.

Tamara was Zayden's first love, terminally ill with just months left.

Her last wish was to see him again.

And Zayden told Lailah he wanted to help fulfill Tamara's bucket list. He hoped she would understand.

Lailah didn't want to, but she had no choice.

She had never seen him look so grim when he said it.

It left her feeling hollow and hurt.

She sat in the darkness for what felt like forever until the door opened.

Zayden walked in with Krish.

He froze when he saw Lailah in the dining room.

For a moment, he just stared, like he had forgotten what day it was.

"Why are you still up?"

"I need to talk to you," she said flatly.

Zayden frowned, then glanced at Krish.

"Go on upstairs. Get some sleep."

Krish yawned, rubbing his eyes as he shuffled past Lailah.

Then he stopped to say, "Happy birthday, Mom."

He looked up to meet her eyes. His eyes were beautiful and so much like Zayden's.

"Dad and I didn't mean to forget. But... we have all the time in the world to be together. Tamara only has six months left.

"Mom, you're not really upset over something this small, are you?"

Lailah didn't know which hurt more.

Was it being forgotten, or knowing she had always come second?

Krish headed upstairs, and silence settled between them.

Finally, Zayden spoke. "What is it?"

He stood there in a white shirt and black trousers, sharp-featured.

To Lailah, he felt like a mirage, close enough to see but always out of reach.

Lailah took a deep breath. "Zayden, let's get a divorce."

His gaze flickered as something stirred in him.

Then, just as quickly, his composure returned.

"Lailah, I didn't forget your birthday. I had a gift for you."

"A gift?" She let out a quiet laugh. "You mean my mother's necklace? You gave it to Tamara, right?"

It was the last thing her mother left her before she died.

Later, it was lost the day Lailah gave birth to Krish.

Zayden promised to find it. And he did.

But instead of giving it back, he gave it to Tamara.

Lailah confronted him, but he stayed unfazed. His expression showed no guilt or discomfort. Only his eyes darkened as he searched for a reply.

"She just borrowed it. She'll give it back soon."

"Soon? You mean when she dies?" Lailah shot back.

"Lailah!" he interrupted, his voice sharp. A rare edge of anger broke through his usual calm and cold demeanor.

"Enough."

The word hit her like a blow, forcing her to decide.

She had been through enough—her husband's heart was with Tamara, her son had grown distant, and her in-laws looked down on her.

"Mara has only six months left," Zayden continued. "Even Krish gets that. Why are you still so petty?"

Lailah couldn't take it anymore.

"Why are you telling me this? She means nothing to me. Why would I put up with her?" she said coldly.

Zayden was thrown by her words. Lailah had always been meek, and saying something this blunt was unlike her.

His gaze turned icy. "Lailah, I thought we had an understanding."

She chuckled. "She wants to relive the past, and I'm just supposed to sit back and watch you fall for her again?

"She wanted a wedding, so you gave her the one I spent so much time putting together.

"I even watched you and her hold Krish's hand and walk to the altar.

"She wanted to see the world, so you took her everywhere.

"If she asked for the moon, you'd probably find a way to get it for her, right?"

Zayden and Lailah had been married in secret for five years, without a wedding.

Once, Krish had asked what she looked like in a wedding dress. That was when Zayden decided to hold a wedding. He let her plan everything exactly how she wanted.

Six months of work was gone in an instant because Tamara asked for it.

Zayden's eyes went ice-cold. "Careful, Lailah. You're crossing a line."

Lailah felt the warning sink in.

Her heart dropped, and she shut her eyes in disappointment.

For years, she had done everything to be the perfect wife and mother.

No matter how hard she tried, Zayden never really cared.

She thought that was just who he was.

Then Tamara came back, and suddenly, the man everyone believed was incapable of passion burned for her.

The memory was too painful for Lailah to dwell on. She reached for the divorce papers on the table.

"I've already signed. You should too. Let's get this over with. You still have time to marry her. That would make her even happier."

His lips pressed into a hard line, frustration clear on his face.

"What about Krish?" Zayden asked.

"He's yours," Lailah said quietly.

Just as Zayden was about to respond, his phone rang.

He picked up, and an urgent voice came through. "Zayden, Mara collapsed! They rushed her to the emergency room!"

Frowning, Zayden said into the phone, "I'll be there right away."

Without looking back, he walked out.

Lailah watched him go, her face expressionless.

She had lost count of how many times this happened—a late-night call pulling him away because of Tamara.

***

The next morning, she dragged her suitcase through the house, ready to leave.

Passing Krish's door, she slowed.

She hesitated, then decided to see him one last time.

Krish had been born premature.

That left him fragile since he was a baby.

So Lailah had handled everything for him over the years.

He looked so much like Zayden, even had his distant nature.

It was the weekend, meaning no classes. Krish sat at his desk, working on his assignments.

Lailah walked into his room. As usual, he muttered, "Morning, Mom." Then he lowered his head and went back to his work.

She looked at the side of his face; it was enough to remind her of Zayden. "Krish, I'm leaving. Take care of yourself," she said.

"Uh-huh." His voice was flat, and he didn't look up.

Ever since Tamara came into their lives, Krish had grown distant.

Tamara once posted a video on Instagram.

In it, Krish sat there, happily chewing on a marshmallow.

"I love hanging out with you, Tamara. You let me have all the best snacks."

"Krish, does your mom treat you badly?" Tamara asked.

"She's always telling me what I can't do and what I can't eat," he answered.

"So, who do you like better, me or your mom?"

"You, obviously! If Mom cared for me even half as much as you do, I'd be way happier."

Lailah had always known. Compared to her strictness, Tamara's indulgence was far more appealing.

Lailah did everything she could to strengthen Krish's health.

She made sure he slept on time and avoided junk food to protect his fragile digestion.

Under her care, he had finally grown stronger. He didn't fall sick so easily anymore.

But little by little, he drifted away from Lailah.

Just as she was about to step out, Krish called out, "Mom."

She looked back at him.

He continued, "You said whoever I like, you like too. And I really like Tamara. So you like her too, right?"

Lailah froze. The last fragile hope holding her together shattered.

She shut her eyes, a bitter smile tugging at her lips.

"You've always wanted to protect Tamara, haven't you? Well, now you can. With your dad."

Krish looked confused, not getting it.

But Lailah didn't say more. She turned and walked out.

Outside the gate, her friend Elyse Krueger was waiting in the car.

She loaded Lailah's suitcase into the trunk and then looked at her.

"Lili, you're really divorcing him?"

Lailah gave a small nod. "Yeah."

"And... what about Krish?"

"Even if I fought for custody, I'd never win against the Walter family."

Lailah paused and gave a better smile. "And honestly, I don't think he'd want to come with me. Right now, he thinks Tamara is the best."

Elyse frowned. "You nearly lost your life bringing him into the world.

"A full day and night of labor, and you've taken care of him every step since. After all that, how could he think that homewrecker is the best?"

"Like father, like son. Even their taste in women is the same," Lailah remarked coolly.

"Does Zayden even know you're leaving?"

Lailah shook her head. "Probably too busy having fun with his precious Tamara."

Lailah had bought an apartment in the city before she got married. It had sat empty for years.

Once the place was cleaned up, Elyse threw her a grin.

"Lili, we haven't hung out since Krish was born. How about a little shopping today?"

Elyse reminded her how much her life had changed. Everything revolved around her family, especially Krish.

Somewhere along the way, she had lost herself. Her time and freedom were consumed by marriage.

She looked at Elyse's bright eyes and suddenly remembered when she had been full of life too.

Five years of marriage had drained it all, leaving Lailah dull and exhausted.

Tears welled in her eyes. "Alright, let's go."

Just then, Elyse's phone rang.

She frowned, listening. "Yeah, got it. We'll head over now."

She hung up and turned to Lailah. "Lili, remember that violin you put up for sale at MusicalNotes Studio? 'Star of Summer Night'.

"Someone's offering a high price. The studio owner says the buyer is a big shot, and he can't say no. Since you're free today, let's go check it out."

Lailah hadn't touched a violin in five years.

Taking care of Krish had kept her too busy, so she had left everything to Elyse.

Hearing this now felt unreal.

They arrived at the studio, and Lailah suddenly stopped.

Zayden stood in front of a glass display case labeled "Not for Sale." He was tall and striking. Beside him was Tamara, delicate and beautiful.

Her voice was soft and pleasant. "That's the legendary 'Star of Summer Night'. Absolutely stunning!

"Zayden, you've always loved hearing me play, right? I want to do a concert while I still can, and I want to use this violin."

"Yeah, we'll take it," he replied in his deep, calm voice.

The studio owner stood behind them, wiping cold sweat off his forehead.

The moment he spotted Lailah and Elyse, his eyes lit up.

"Ms. Krueger, you're finally here! Mr. Walter wants to buy this. He says you can name the price. What do you think?" the owner asked.

The moment Elyse spotted Zayden and Tamara, her brows pulled together.

"The violin is not for sale," Elyse declared, irritation flickering in her eyes.

Tamara raised an eyebrow, her gaze shifting to Lailah beside Elyse.

Tamara was graceful and sweet-looking.

Lailah, on the other hand, was demure. With her perfect oval face and expressive eyes, she looked like a highborn lady straight out of a painting.

For a moment, Tamara's expression darkened.

Then she stepped forward, looking at Lailah with pleading eyes.

"Ms. Griffith, this is your friend's violin, right? Could you ask her to let me borrow it for a little while?

"Zayden and I met because of a violin.

"I was practicing in the garden, and he followed the sound. That's how he found me... He's always loved listening to me play.

"I don't know how much time I have left. I don't even know if I can pull off one last concert. But I want to try."

As she spoke, she tilted her head slightly, and the necklace at her throat caught the light.

Whether she meant to show it off or not, it shimmered brilliantly.

The sight of it stung Lailah's eyes.

"People die every day. Am I supposed to give in to every single one of them just because they ask?" Lailah's voice was ice-cold.

Tamara had never heard such harsh words before.

Her eyes brimmed with tears.

Zayden's face darkened. "Lailah, it's just a violin. Why are you being so mean? If you want one, I'll get you another."

Lailah met his gaze. "Yeah, it's just a violin. Why don't you get her another one? Why does it have to be mine?"

Tamara tried again, begging, "Ms. Griffith, please. What would it take for you to lend me the violin? Name your price."

If Lailah agreed, Zayden would be the one paying.

She smirked. "Ms. Mosley, you seem to have a thing for my mother's belongings. First, her necklace. Now, her violin."

Tamara looked confused. "I don't get what you mean, Ms. Griffith."

Her pretense couldn't fool Lailah, and she sneered inwardly.

"I mean, the violin was my mother's. And that necklace you're wearing? She left it to me too."

Tamara went pale. "I'm sorry. I didn't know it was hers.

"Last night, Krish gave me a gift box with the necklace inside. I thought it was from Zayden, so I put it on. I really didn't know..."

Lailah chuckled. "Well, now you do. Can you give it back?"

Tamara hesitated, fingers brushing over the necklace. She bit her lip and looked at Zayden.

"Zayden, maybe we should just let her have it? It's not worth upsetting her over something so small," she said in a choked voice.

Tamara said "let her have it" instead of "give it back," like she was doing Lailah a favor.

She wasn't admitting it wasn't Lailah's to keep.

"So Tamara knows it was my mom's, but somehow, she doesn't think that makes it mine. She thinks she's just being generous," Lailah thought.

Zayden already thought Lailah was using the divorce to push him.

And Tamara's words only made it worse.

"No," he said coldly. "I gave it to you. It's yours now."

"But—" Tamara started, but he cut her off.

"I gave it to you. There's no reason to take it back."

Tamara looked genuinely moved.

Lailah clenched her fists.

Then a faint smile crossed her lips.

"Ms. Mosley, you want to borrow my violin, right? That's easy. If he begs me for it, I might say yes," she said.

Tamara's eyes widened slightly in disbelief.

Zayden shot Lailah a glare.

"Lailah, don't push it," he warned.

"I thought you'd do anything for her. Guess I was wrong," she scoffed.

She used to think Zayden would sacrifice anything for Tamara.

It turned out he only gave up what never really mattered to him, including Lailah.

With that realization, whatever she had felt for him was gone.

She turned to the startled studio owner. "The contract for 'Star of Summer Night' ends today, right? Go ahead and take it down. I'm bringing it with me."

He hesitated, glancing at Zayden.

Lailah raised an eyebrow. "What's that look for? I can't take back my own violin?"

"No, don't get me wrong."

The owner gave an awkward smile. "I'll get the paperwork sorted right away, Ms. Griffith."

Once the papers were done, Lailah picked up the violin and left without looking back at Zayden or Tamara.

Zayden watched her go, his brows knitting together.

Tamara lowered her head, looking guilty.

"She's probably upset because you forgot her birthday yesterday. It's my fault. I'm always sick and keep you too busy."

"It's not your fault." Zayden looked at her and said softly, "Just focus on the concert. I'll have 'Star of Summer Night' sent to you soon."

Tamara's eyes brightened. "Okay."

***

That evening, Zayden came home on time for once.

But Lailah wasn't there, waiting with dinner like always.

It was dinnertime. Krish came downstairs and looked around the empty dining room.

Then he turned to Zayden with a puzzled expression.

"Dad, did Mom not cook today?"

Lailah had always been the perfect wife and mother, never asking for much, never complaining, and always doing what was expected.

Zayden had been content with her, but he never felt anything for her.

Krish had a sensitive stomach and was picky with food.

So Lailah always made dinner and late-night snacks herself.

Zayden thought back to their fight at the studio, his lips pressing into a thin line.

"If she thinks skipping dinner is gonna make me cave, she's way off," he thought.

Then he turned to Krish. "Forget it. Let's eat out."

Krish clapped his hands happily. "Great! Let's bring Tamara. I can have marshmallows again!"

"Marshmallows?" Zayden paused and then asked, "Your mom says you're lactose intolerant. Should you even be eating stuff like that?"

Krish pouted. "It's not that bad anymore. The doctor said I can have some now and then. Mom just wants to control me."

Hearing a five-year-old call that "control" felt weird.

Just as Zayden was about to say something, his phone rang.

He answered it.

Tamara's voice came through. "Zayden, are you home?"

"Yeah."

"Ms. Griffith is still not back, huh?"

Zayden paused and then asked, "Why?"

"I think I saw her." After a beat, her voice faltered. "She's... with some guy. They look close."

She hesitated again before adding carefully, "Did we upset her earlier? Maybe you should talk to her and clear things up."

Zayden's eyes darkened.

"So that's why she's not home yet," he thought.

His voice turned cold. "Where is she?"

Tamara gave him the address.

"Got it," he said and hung up.

***

At the restaurant, Jamir Buckley looked into Lailah's eyes.

"Are you sure about this?"

Lailah nodded. "My mom had the violin custom-made for me, but I haven't touched it in five years. I put my family first over my dreams..."

She let out a quiet sigh, looking sad.

"What's your plan now?" His voice turned serious. "You know coming back means constant performances and travel. You'll barely have time for family."

"Krish is healthy now." A flicker of self-mockery crossed her eyes. "He doesn't need me anymore."

"Would Zayden be okay with it?" he asked.

Lailah's expression hardened at the mention of Zayden's name.

"It's my career. He doesn't get a say."

Jamir held her gaze. "But you know he won't like you meeting me."

"I don't need his permission."

As she spoke, a flicker of guilt crossed her face. She remembered pulling away from Jamir just because Zayden hadn't liked it.

"Jamir, I'm sorry."

Jamir shook his head. "Lili, come on. There's nothing to apologize for. If anything, I should be the one saying sorry.

"I told your mom I'd look out for you, but I let you go through all of it alone."

Jamir was a little older than her. They had learned violin together under her mother's guidance.

Now, he was a well-known violinist, respected in the industry.

His good looks and quiet melancholy made him a phenomenon, the man countless women dreamed about.

His fame even rivaled top celebrities.

But despite all that, he couldn't go up against Zayden.

"Don't say that. That was my—"

Before Lailah could finish, a soft voice cut in from behind.

"Ms. Griffith, why are you here?"

Lailah turned. Tamara stood there, dressed in an elegant white dress.

"Not again. Twice in one day? Just my luck," Lailah thought.

"What does that have to do with you?" she replied coolly.

Tamara smiled. "Ms. Griffith, don't be mad. I just found it strange. Zayden actually got home early today, and here you are instead of making dinner for him."

Tamara looked sweet and harmless, with a soft voice and a gentle expression.

Next to her, Lailah came off as cold and snarky.

But underneath it all, Lailah caught the mockery, the quiet challenge in her words.

She met Tamara's eyes just in time to see the flicker of satisfaction there.

"Ha. You know exactly why Zayden always comes home late. You take up every free moment he has. Are you seriously playing dumb with me, Ms. Mosley?" she shot back.

Tamara's smile faltered. She grabbed Lailah's hand, her voice urgent.

"Ms. Griffith, please, listen to me. That's not what I meant—"

"Oh, I see. You're not playing dumb; you just don't know your place," Lailah said, cutting her off.

She pulled her hand free and continued, "And people like you are really obnoxious."

Suddenly, Tamara let out a sharp cry, jerking backward.

Before Lailah could even process it, a tall figure rushed forward, catching Tamara before she could fall.

"Mara, are you okay?" a voice asked.

Tamara turned, her face pale. The second she saw it was Zayden, tears welled up in her eyes. She looked like she had been deeply wronged.

"I'm fine, Zayden... She didn't do it on purpose. Don't be mad at her, please."

Only then did he notice Lailah.

"Lailah, apologize to Mara," he demanded, frowning.

Tamara had pulled this act before.

In the past, Lailah would have rushed to defend herself and begged Zayden to believe her.

But he never had. Every time, he had made her apologize.

And when Lailah refused, he punished her with silence, ignoring her calls and messages.

He acted like she didn't exist, refusing to speak to her or even look at her.

Even Krish started treating her the same way.

And in the end, Lailah had to give in.

Thinking back, she let out a sneer.

"Why should I listen to you? Who do you think you are?"

Zayden stiffened like he wasn't sure he had heard her right.

"What did you just say?"

Lailah looked into his face and said coldly, "When I cared about you, I did whatever you wanted. But now, you mean nothing to me."

Zayden finally got it.

Lailah had never spoken to him like this before.

And she had always been gentle and considerate.

She waited up for him on late nights, leaving a light on.

When he worked late in his study, she made him snacks.

If he came home drunk, she helped him sober up with something refreshing.

Lailah had changed after Tamara's return, but she had never stood up to him like this.

Something about it unsettled him.

Then Krish's voice broke the silence.

"Mom, you always say that if someone messes up, they should apologize. Well, you did something wrong. Shouldn't you say sorry to Tamara?"

Lailah turned to Krish, who stood just behind Zayden.

Krish was talking to her, but his eyes stayed on Tamara, full of concern.

Zayden and Krish always overreacted the moment Tamara seemed uncomfortable.

Once, the four of them went to the park.

Tamara suddenly collapsed, possibly from heatstroke or some other cause.

Zayden and Krish rushed to her at the same time.

In his panic, Zayden shoved Lailah aside, knocking her to the ground.

No one even noticed.

The irony was that when Zayden saw her bandaged hand, he asked how she had gotten hurt.

Tamara's soft, breathy voice interrupted Lailah's thoughts.

"Krish, I just lost my balance. It wasn't your mother's fault."

Tamara shook her head, tears streaming down her cheeks. She looked heartbreakingly fragile. "Sorry, my body is just too weak..."

Krish pouted. "But I saw Mom push you."

He turned to Lailah with a serious face.

"Mom, you always say if we mess up, we should own up to it. You wouldn't go back on that, right?"

Lailah had done everything to make sure Krish grew stronger.

But when it came to his studies, she barely ever had to step in.

At just five, he already spoke three languages. His words were clear, his thinking sharp.

And he had a way of winning arguments against adults.

Zayden's mother often said he was just like his father had been as a child.

And now, he was turning Lailah's own lesson against her.

As his mother, she was supposed to set the example.

"If I don't stick to what I said, how can I expect Krish to? He won't take me seriously if I mess this up now," Lailah thought.

Lailah looked at Zayden and Krish, standing close to Tamara.

For the first time, she felt they looked more like a family.

She had stopped expecting anything from Zayden and Krish long ago, but Krish's words still cut deep.

Lailah looked him in the eye and said, "You're right. I did say that, but..."

She paused, keeping her voice firm. "But I didn't do anything wrong. So why would I apologize?"

Before, she would have given in for Krish's sake.

But not today.

"But I saw you push Tamara," Krish blurted.

Lailah didn't argue. She gave a faint smile.

"Just because I pushed her, that doesn't mean I was in the wrong."

"But you say hurting people is wrong," Krish insisted.

"Yeah, and I also told you not to let people push you around. Standing up for yourself isn't the same as hurting someone. If someone keeps crossing the line, you don't have to just let them," Lailah replied flatly.

Krish was sharp, but he was still just a kid.

He hadn't expected her to say that. For a moment, he didn't know what to say.

Then, Jamir's voice broke the silence.

"Krish, that's not how you talk to your mother."

Zayden and Krish both turned at the sound. They seemed surprised to see Jamir here.

Krish blinked. "Uncle Jamir?"

Zayden frowned. "Jamir? No way."

He knew Jamir's relationship with Lailah. She had told him a lot about Jamir, and he had met him many times.

Lailah had once told him how Jamir lost his parents and was raised by his grandparents.

When Jamir was in middle school, both of them passed away, leaving him completely alone.

Back then, her mother saw his musical talent and took him in as her student.

Jamir was quiet, distant, and unwilling to let anyone in.

It took Lailah three years to get him to completely open up and befriend him.

From the moment Zayden met Jamir, he had disliked him, though he could never quite say why.

"You meet with your ex, but Lili having dinner with someone she grew up with is a problem?" Jamir said sharply.

Jamir's voice was steady, but his words were laced with scorn.

They cut through the pretense, hinting at something between Zayden and Tamara.

Zayden's face darkened.

"Lailah, come home with me," he snapped.

"No. Jamir and I haven't finished our dinner," she said, unfazed.

His voice hardened. "I'll say this one last time. Come with me."

Lailah knew he was furious now.

If she didn't listen, it wouldn't just be silence.

Zayden had ways of making her bow.

She would never forget that stormy night.

Rain soaked through her clothes as she knelt at his feet, begging him to give Krish back.

He looked down at her and asked, "Do you see your mistake now?"

Her tears fell, and she agreed to apologize for Tamara's fall.

Zayden always found a way to make her submit.

But this time, Lailah smirked faintly.

"No."

Zayden glared at her, his lips pressed together.

"Lailah, think carefully about the consequences."

"Just do what you want, Mr. Walter."

Her weakness had always been Krish.

But now, she didn't care about him anymore. Zayden had nothing left to hold over her.

Lailah turned to Jamir. "The air here isn't great. Let's go somewhere else."

Jamir thought about it and then nodded. "Alright."

Lailah picked up her purse from the table and turned to leave.

Behind her, Krish's voice rang out, insistent.

"Mom, you're really not gonna apologize to Tamara?"

Lailah paused for a moment but didn't look back. Then, she walked out.

Zayden watched her go with a sulky look on his face.

Krish felt lost, still staring after her.

"Mom seems different," he muttered to himself.

Tamara got a bit upset, seeing their focus on Lailah.

Suddenly, she let out a low cry.

Their attention snapped to her.

She went pale, her body trembling like she was about to faint.

An alarmed look crossed Zayden's face, and without hesitation, he scooped her up.

Zayden said to Krish, "Krish, wait for me here."

Knowing Zayden was about to administer first aid to Tamara, Krish gave a quick nod.

Shortly after Zayden left, Krish heard a woman at the next table talking in a low voice.

"Tristen, look. That boy looks a few years younger than you, but he's already able to help expel the mistress for his mother.

"When you see that bad woman again, you must show no fear just like that boy. Got it?"

Krish turned his face.

His gaze fell on the next table where a woman, probably in her thirties, was having dinner with a young boy, seven or eight years old.

The boy called Tristen nodded.

As he met Krish's eyes, Tristen jumped off the chair and walked to Krish.

"That was impressive. Can you teach me how to expel a mistress?"

Krish was a bit stunned. "A mistress?"

Tristen thought Krish didn't know what mistress meant, so he started to explain it to Krish.

"The woman who wrecks our parents' relationship is called a mistress. Because of her, our parents will get a divorce and mom will feel sad.

"Women like that are all badass!" Tristen put on an angry face. "Recently, a bad woman has been badgering my dad. But..."

Then Tristen looked dejected.

"But I didn't know I should go fight the mistress and protect my mom."

He lifted his gaze to Krish, eyes shining with admiration.

"You were so amazing just now. You drove the mistress away easily and also helped your parents make up. Can you tell me how you made it?"

Krish was still perplexed. "My parents making up?"

But Lailah had left herself.

Tristen looked at him in confusion. "Didn't you drive the mistress away with a few words? And your dad just carried your mom away."

It turned out that Tristen had mistaken Tamara for Krish's mother.

At that moment, Tristen's mother also walked over.

She caressed Krish's head and praised, "Good for you, kid. You took your mom's side bravely. My son spoke for his dad's mistress just for a candy."

Tristen scratched his head with embarrassment and muttered, "You don't allow me to eat candies. I really crave one."

"I don't let you have too many candies because they can hurt your teeth. You can eat as many candies as you want when you become an adult. I won't say a word then."

Tristen held his mother's arm and said coquettishly, "I'm sorry. You do that for my own good. Please don't be mad."

"Now you know how much concern I show for you."

Tristen giggled, "It's not too late for me to know that!"

Despite all the complaining words she said, the affection and gentleness in the eyes of Tristen's mother were quite obvious.

More than half an hour later, Zayden and Tamara returned.

Tamara said with resignation, "Zayden, I'm fine. It's just low blood sugar... I don't have to go to the hospital."

Zayden put on a serious look. "You've fainted more often than before lately. You gotta go to the hospital in case your condition gets worse."

Tamara's face stiffened subtly.

These days, to teach Lailah a lesson, she had asked Zayden to meet her more often than before.

Tamara said, "It's OK. It's getting late. Krish hasn't eaten yet. Let's have dinner first. I can go to the hospital tomorrow."

They came to Krish while talking.

Krish sat by a table alone, staring out of the window with a confused look that had never crossed his face.

Yet, Zayden didn't notice that. He directly walked to Krish.

"Tamara isn't feeling well. I'll take her to the hospital first. We'll have supper after that."

Zayden's voice was casual, but his words implied no denial.

He seemed nonchalant, but deep inside, he was powerful and aggressive.

It was hard to change his mind once he made a decision.

Krish would agree without hesitation before.

But today, somehow, Lailah's face came to his mind.

Previously, Lailah would cook meals for him on time.

Krish had stomach problems, so he had to have regular meals every day.

Sometimes, when they were out with Tamara, Lailah would still let him have some dessert by mealtime.

The dessert was specially made by Lailah for Krish.

Lailah was good at cooking, but Krish still got sick of the food she made.

There were so many options outside for him.

Gradually, he disliked the food made by Lailah.

Tamara's soft voice broke Krish's train of thought.

"Zayden, Krish's health isn't good. We should let him eat something first."

Zayden replied in a cold voice, "Your health matters more compared with Krish's."

After hearing that, Tamara blushed at once.

She didn't refuse Zayden but lowered her eyes to look at Krish.

"Krish, how about buying a piece of strawberry cake first for you?"

Strawberry cake was Krish's favorite.

He'd jump with joy before.

But today, he just nodded slightly.

"OK."

Tamara found Krish a bit strange today, but she didn't take it to heart.

She had a slice of strawberry cake to go before holding Krish's hand and getting out of the restaurant.

On the way to the hospital, Tamara sat in the front passenger seat. She kept looking back to remind Krish to be careful while eating the cake.

She said regretfully, "If I weren't carsick, I'd definitely sit in the back with Krish so that I could take care of Krish."

Exactly, even when Lailah was around, Tamara would insist on taking the front passenger seat.

Her excuse was that she had car sickness and would feel better sitting in the front passenger seat.

Looking at the cake in his hand, Krish suddenly thought of what Tristen's mother said. She said it was for Tristen's good not to let him have candies.

Krish suddenly asked, "Ms. Mosley, are you a mistress?"

Tamara was stunned. She couldn't believe what she had just heard.

"What?"

Krish raised his head and repeated his words.

"Ms. Mosley, are you a mistress?"

Tamara never expected Krish would ask that question.

The word mistress was humiliating for any woman.

Her face hardened. She was lost in a trance.

"Krish!" Zayden snapped in a stern voice. "Do you know what you just said? Where are your manners?"

Tamara also recovered her senses.

She hastened to say, "Zayden, don't blame Krish. He's still a kid. How could he know that much?"

Speaking of that, she hedged and her voice sounded sad.

"I know Ms. Griffith dislikes me. But no matter how much she hates me, she shouldn't tell Krish about that. Kids shouldn't be involved in the adults' business. After all, he's innocent and so young..."

What Tamara implied was that Krish could never say those words unless somebody taught him.

Zayden pursed his lips quietly and his cold vibe indicated his anger.

Krish was an astute kid. Although Zayden didn't say a word, he could feel Zayden was displeased.

He subconsciously tried to explain, "Mom didn't tell me that. It's..."

Tamara interrupted him before he could finish his words.

"Krish, I know Ms. Griffith didn't tell you that. It must be some passer-by, right?"

Krish didn't understand the implied meaning of Tamara's words. He thought Tamara had really figured it out herself. He nodded seriously.

"That's right. I heard a woman say that in the restaurant just now."

Tamara said gently, "Krish, I trust you."

Krish was about to give a smile when he seemed to think of something and then looked serious.

He stared at Tamara and insisted on asking for an answer.

"Ms. Mosley, will you be a mistress?"

Zayden frowned and meant to say something, but he was stopped by Tamara.

She shook her head at Zayden and said to Krish, "Krish, did you forget this? I can only live for less than half a year."

Krish usually called her Tamara.

Now he just called her Ms. Mosley, which made Tamara a bit panicked.

Five years old as Krish was, he was no ordinary kid.

Stunned, Krish seemed to have just remembered that.

He didn't know why he asked that question.

Somehow, he kind of regretted it.

"Tamara is such a nice and gentle woman. How can I suspect her? Besides, she's dying." Krish thought.

Krish was smart, yet five years old only.

He didn't even notice that Tamara hadn't given him an exact answer yet.

Krish subconsciously bit his lower lip and apologized, "Ms. Mosley, I'm sorry."

Tamara smiled and said gently, "Alright, forget about it. Krish, think about what you wanna eat later. I'll buy it for you."

Krish quickly left it aside and talked with Tamara about what to eat later.

"Tamara, I wanna eat fried chicken today!"

Tamara agreed without hesitation, "Sure."

Zayden interrupted, "Mara, your health isn't good. The doctor told you not to eat fried dishes."

"It's OK to eat just a bit." Then, Tamara turned her face to take a glance at Krish. "And Krish wants to eat fried chicken. No need to stick to the doctor's words all the time. We gotta indulge once in a while for fun."

Krish thought of Lailah, who didn't allow him to eat those unhealthy foods. He felt that Tamara was more understanding indeed.

But his mother would do nothing but discipline him.

***

The next early morning, when Krish went downstairs, Zayden was reading the newspaper in the dining room.

Seeing Krish rubbing his eyes with a drowsy face, Zayden said with a frown, "Krish, why haven't you gone to the kindergarten?"

Krish lowered his head and said, "No one woke me up. I got up late."

At this moment, Alyvia got out of the kitchen with breakfast.

Zayden looked at Alyvia with annoyance, "Why didn't you ask Krish to get up?"

Alyvia was also stunned to see Krish still home.

She explained awkwardly, "Mr. Walter, it's always Mrs. Walter who wakes Mr. Krish up..."

Zayden's face fell. "The meals are cooked by Lailah. My son is awakened by her, too. So, what are you doing here?"

He was apathetic and taciturn.

Alyvia had never seen Zayden flare up since she started working here five years ago.

At the moment, Zayden gave off a domineering vibe, making Alyvia shiver all over.

However, as she thought of Lailah had done so much for the family but was never appreciated, Alyvia couldn't help speaking for Lailah.

"No, Mrs. Walter said you and Mr. Krish had stomach problems and needed to have herbal soup.

"For some herbal soup, it'd take at least two hours to process the herb. The whole making procedure could be rather complicated. Mrs. Walter spent a long time learning traditional medicine by herself to make herbal soup."

Herbal soup?

Zayden's eyes slightly flickered.

No wonder his stomach disease hadn't flared up for a long time.

Alyvia added, "Afterward, you and Mr. Krish finally got better. And she could've taken a rest.

"But..."

Alyvia darted a glance at Zayden and mumbled, "Once, Mrs. Walter brought you a meal and Ms. Mosley happened to have a seizure from the low blood sugar. Then, you gave the herbal soup to her.

"Mr. Mosley found the soup quite to her taste. After knowing that it was the herbal soup, she mentioned that the doctor told her to eat some herbal soup as well. But she didn't know anyone who could make herbal soup. Meanwhile, she kept complimenting Mrs. Walter on the herbal soup.

"So, you asked Mrs. Walter to cook for Ms. Mosley passingly.

"Mrs. Walter said Ms. Mosley's taste was different from yours and Mr. Krish's. She was afraid that Ms. Mosley might not like the soup she made.

"Then, you and Mr. Krish said whatever Ms. Mosley liked to eat was fine by you too. From then on, Ms. Mosley will send a list of what she wants to eat to me and Mrs. Walter.

"I'll buy the materials and Mrs. Walter will cook."

Just at that moment, Alyvia's phone buzzed.

She took out her phone and checked the message before passing it to Zayden.

"See? Ms. Mosley has sent the list again."

Zayden glanced at the phone only to find that it was a group chat.

The members included Tamara, Alyvia, and Lailah.

Most of the time, it was Tamara who sent the messages.

Her text said, "I wanna have three dishes and a soup today."

Then it was followed by the dish names.

Before Zayden could finish reading the messages, Alyvia snatched the phone and quickly sent her reply.

Zayden was a bit shocked to see her actions.

Faced with his confusion, Alyvia explained, "Last time I didn't reply in time because I was doing some cleaning. Then, when I took the meal to Ms. Mosley, she refused to eat it as if suffering some serious grievance.

"Later, she fainted due to low blood sugar and was taken to the hospital. After she woke up, she said she was dying and that it'd be a waste to have the herbal soup. So, she didn't feel like bothering Mrs. Walter anymore.

"Back then, you threw a tantrum at Mrs. Walter, saying that she deliberately ignored Ms. Mosley. No matter what I said, you and Ms. Mosley just wouldn't believe me."

Alyvia took off the apron while talking.

"Mr. Walter, Mr. Krish, please make do with the breakfast I prepared. I gotta buy the groceries now, or they'd be not fresh enough. Ms. Mosley would think it was Mrs. Walter's deliberate act again."

"Then, Tamara will complain to Zayden again for sure," thought Alyvia.

Suddenly, a notification appeared in the group chat.

Alyvia just stopped as she saw that.

Rubbing her eyes, Alyvia wanted to find out if she had seen it wrongly.

Krish saw Alyvia's weird gesture and couldn't help asking, "Alyvia, what's wrong?"

Alyvia passed her phone to Zayden carefully. "Sir..."

Zayden lowered his eyes only to find that Lailah had left the group chat.

Seeing that, Zayden looked even sterner.

The next second, his phone rang.

Tamara's voice came from the other side of the call.

"Zayden, what should I do? Ms. Griffith seems really mad..."

Zayden suddenly thought of Lailah.

He barely saw her cry.

The only time she cried was a while ago. Back then, Lailah pushed Tamara into the water, causing the latter to get seriously sick. But Lailah refused to admit her mistake by all means.

As a punishment for Lailah, Zayden took Krish to the Walter's manor and told her that if she didn't apologize, she could never meet Krish again.

Back then, Krish's old illness flared up again, sending him into a high fever.

Lailah went to the Walter's manor, but Zayden didn't let her in.

Unexpectedly, there was heavy rain by the evening.

The whole family was busy taking care of Krish, so Lailah was left out.

In the end, it was the housekeeper who came to remind Zayden of that.

Finally, Lailah was brought into the manor.

That was the first time he had seen her cry...

Tamara's sobbing broke into his thoughts.

"I just saw that Ms. Griffith had left the group chat. Zayden, just forget it. Since she doesn't want to make me herbal soup, don't bother her then..."

For no reason, Zayden felt a bit annoyed.

He said, "OK."

As if not expecting such a response from Zayden, Tamara stopped sobbing at once.

Zayden said coldly, "Since herbal soup is good for your health, I'll have someone tailor-make food for you and take care of you."

Tamara refused at once, "That's not necessary."

She didn't like eating herbal soup at all.

The herbal soup sent by Lailah was all thrown away by her.

She demanded those dishes merely to give Tamara a hard time.

However, Zayden didn't know her true thoughts and said, "It's settled then. I've got things to do. Gotta go."

Tamara was dumbfounded as the phone was hung up.

He'd hire somebody to take care of Tamara...

In this case, once she didn't eat the herbal soup, Zayden would be informed and her lies would be laid bare.

Tamara couldn't help gritting her teeth.

"Blasted Lailah! It must be because of her!" she thought.

Her resentment of Lailah just escalated.

Alyvia was rejoiced that she could finally get rid of this work.

As a rich lady, cooking once in a while would be fun.

But if she had to cook every day, she'd be just like a housekeeper.

No wonder Lailah would quit and leave out of anger.

After hanging up the call, Zayden said to Krish, "Sit down and have breakfast. I'll drive you to the kindergarten later."

Krish rubbed his eyes and said OK.

He wasn't as healthy as common kids. These days, he came back home late all the time. As a result, he wasn't feeling well.

Zayden and Krish sat facing each other, eating breakfast quietly.

Krish's daily life and studies were usually in Lailah's charge.

Zayden was too busy with work to ask about that.

At the moment, silence reigned at the table.

Eating the breakfast made by Alyvia, Krish found it didn't taste well anyway.

Ever since Lailah started to cook for him, he had become dainty about food and wasn't used to the dishes cooked by Alyvia.

At that moment, Zayden's voice came from the other end of the table.

"Who taught you to say what you said yesterday?"

Krish lifted his head in a daze only to find that Zayden was staring at him. Zayden's eyes were so intimidatingly sharp.

Before Krish could answer, Zayden added, "Was it Lailah?"

Krish wasn't afraid of Lailah, but he always feared his cold, serious father.

He didn't dare to look into Zayden's eyes. "No, it wasn't Mom."

However, in Zayden's eyes, Krish was diffident because he was lying.

Zayden wondered, "Is this how Lailah educates our son?"

He sneered, "Since she can't educate you well, she should reflect on herself for a while."

Then, he looked at Krish.

"Krish, you'll stay in our manor for a few days."

Krish was about to say something, but when he heard Zayden's words, his eyes lit up.

He heard that Laila refused to apologize for pushing Tamara into the water.

Afterward, Zayden took him to the Walter's manor. As such, Lailah finally compromised and apologized to Zayden and Tamara in tears.

Krish thought if he stayed in the Walter's manor again, Lailah would apologize to Tamara, just like before.

***

In the apartment, Elyse widened her eyes as she watched Lailah leave the group chat and blacklist Tamara and Zayden.

"Lili, are you serious this time?"

Then, Lailah raised her head and said, "Do I look like kidding?"

Elyse heaved a sigh. "You also made up your mind not to give in last time Tamara fell into the water. But later, Krish got sick... I'm afraid Zayden might compel you again with your son."

Women tended to be softhearted. They'd bear anything for their child.

People said men all thought they could have their wives under control as long as they had a child.

That was true indeed.

80% of the women would be under control due to their children.

Lailah said nonchalantly, "No worries, not this time."

Elyse was still suspicious. "Really?"

Lailah laughed. "I mean it. I thought I'd done everything for Krish as a good mother. In fact, I'm the only one who felt this way."

"In this case..." Elyse blinked her eyes and snickered. "I must take you out for some fun tonight. My treat."

Elyse was single. She loved to hit the bar.

Lailah rejected, "No, thanks..."

"Come on," Elyse interrupted her. "Back then, you were the campus belle in Castleedge College of Music. Do you know how many guys fell for the dance you did at the school anniversary celebration?"

Elyse pouted and continued, "You can play the violin, dance, and have a pretty face. You were the dream girl of so many men, but you ended up marrying Zayden, that jerk!

"There are so many nice guys except Zayden! Just go with me to chill out."

Urged by Elyse, Lailah finally agreed.

***

At 8 pm, Lailah and Elyse entered a bar.

The bar didn't look as crowded and chaotic as Lailah imagined. It was actually a lot fancier than ordinary ones.

Elyse raised her eyebrows. "This bar is newly open. The guys here are really cute. I'm sure you'll have a great time here tonight."

Since she was already here, Lailah wouldn't kill the buzz. She said with a smile, "Sure."

Shortly, a familiar voice came from behind her.

"Whoa, isn't this Zayden's simp? What? Are you here to meet him again?"

Lailah turned around only to see an arrogant young man walking in her direction with a few guys.

She recognized him instantly.

He was Jaylen Nielsen, Zayden's friend and one of Tamara's wooers.

Since Lailah and Zayden were together, Jaylen had looked down upon her and kept insulting her.

After Tamara came back, he took pleasure in causing trouble for Lailah and acted as the bridge between Tamara and Zayden.

Whenever Tamara didn't feel well or needed anything, Jaylen would immediately call Zayden and get him there.

He even asked Lailah to give place for Tamara.

Jaylen walked to Lailah and stared at the latter teasingly.

"Since you're a housewife, why don't you stay home studying how to be a good wife and keep your husband's heart? Going out for fun isn't what a full-time housewife should do."

Lailah could host with class and cook with skill.

No one could find fault with her doings.

As a result, Jaylen made a nickname for Lailah—Housewife.

From then on, Zayden's friends would all call her housewife upon seeing her.

Jaylen's attitude and tone were so annoying that Elyse's brows furrowed.

Lailah also put on a long face.

However, Jaylen didn't restrain himself. Instead, he whistled and looked at Lailah.

"Whoa, angry again? Housewife, I'm just kidding. Don't tell me you're mad."

Jaylen's friends also kicked up a fuss there.

"Right. As Zayden's wife, you must be magnanimous. How can you be so stingy? You'll bring shame to Zayden."

"Besides, Jaylen is right. Aren't you a housewife looking after your husband and child at home?"

"Tell me about it. How can you compare with Mara? Mara graduated from Castleedge College of Music!"

"Castleedge College of Music, did you hear about that? You know what, that's one of the top five musical colleges!"

Elyse couldn't help looking at Lailah.

"Tamara also graduated from Castleedge College of Music? Why have I never heard about her?"

Hearing that, Jaylen glimpsed Elyse and tittered.

"You're like living in a bubble. There's a lot you don't know. Just go out and see more."

He showed no respect at all.

Elyse frowned. "Lili, who's this guy? Why is he so annoying? We were not talking to him, but he just came to talk with us. He's such an egoist."

Lilah said casually, "One of Tamar's simps. You can call him bootlicker."

"Oh, Tamara's bootlicker." Elyse took a tumble and anger faded away from her face. "No wonder he's so annoying. Got it."

Jaylen's countenance changed. Before he said anything, Lailah smiled at him.

"Mr. Nielsen, I was just kidding. Don't tell me you're angry."

Having witnessed how these guys insulted Lailah, Elyse flew into a rage.

Hearing Lailah's words, Elyse immediately played along.

"What? How can a man get mad over such a joke? Too lame. You'd bring shame to the other men!"

Lailah replied, "Be good. He hasn't seen the world. Don't sink to their level."

The others all looked embarrassed. Even a fool would know Lailah and Elyse were talking back with their words.

Elyse grinned, "Keep simping and you'll die alone. Alright, since he's so miserable, I won't take that to heart. Lili, let's go. I'll take you to have some fun."

Lailah nodded and left.

Jaylen watched with gnashed teeth as Lailah left. His face darkened.

His friends all looked at each other.

One of them forced a smile and said, "How bold of these two women! How dare they call Jaylen a simp? How is that possible? He's..."

He faltered.

Well, what Lailah and Elyse said seemed to be true.

Jaylen was a bit like a simp indeed...

Another guy reacted fast and immediately said, "Jaylen is Mara's white knight!"

The others all chimed in, "Right, white knight!"

Suddenly, a soft voice cut through the awkward silence.

"Jaylen, what are you doing here?"

Jaylen turned his face and saw a couple walking in this direction.

The man was handsome and dashing, while the woman was pretty and delicate.

Jaylen's eyes glistened at once.

He trotted to them and complained about Lailah.

"Zayden, Mara, do you know who I've just met? Lailah! She's here for fun!

"I think she's too idle. That's why she has time to goof around. Isn't she supposed to cook a meal for Mara every day? I think we should make it three!

"Zayden, you can't spoil this immoral woman!"

Hearing that, Tamara slightly frowned.

"For fun?" She turned around and looked at Zayden, saying with a frown, "Zayden, it's so late. Did Ms. Griffith leave Krish alone at home?"

Zayden frowned upon hearing Lailah's name.

Tamara looked Zayden up and down, whispering, "Zayden, Krish's health isn't good. Is it really OK for him to be at home alone?"

Zayden pursed his lips, his face somewhat gloomy.

"Krish has gone back to the manor."

Zayden wanted to use Krish to punish Lailah and make her realize her mistake.

Unexpectedly, she didn't even go back home.

Tamara was stunned for a few seconds and figured out Zayden's intention.

"Zayden, Ms. Griffith is always taking care of Krish at home. She gets tired too. Maybe... she just needs to relax a bit."

She lowered her head and continued apologetically, "It was inconsiderate of me to ask her to make me the herbal soup for such a long time. I understand if she doesn't want to continue..."

Jaylen interrupted Tamara in a fury, "What? Lailah has stopped making herbal soup for you?! If she hadn't pushed you into the water, your condition wouldn't have worsened!

"How can she just leave you alone? How dare she?"

Tamara hastened to hold Jaylen's arm. "Jaylen, like I said, it had nothing to do with Ms. Griffith. I fell into the water by accident..."

"Mara, you're always so kind. You've become like this because of that wicked woman, but you're still speaking for her!"

Jaylen shifted his eyes to Zayden in grief. "Zayden, how can you just let her bully Mara?"