Emily observed the room, taking in the wide-eyed stares of Mark’s colleagues, the quiet murmurs of guests exchanging horrified glances, and the sound of chairs scraping as people began to leave. Mark stumbled over his words, trying to explain, but it was useless. The evidence was undeniable, and no charm or excuse could save him now.
In the weeks that followed, Mark moved out of the house. His business collapsed as clients pulled their support, and Linda filed for divorce. Emily stayed by her mother’s side, helping her rebuild. Though the road was painful, they were closer than ever, bonded by resilience and newfound trust.