I never thought I’d have a husband who would lie to me. David and I had been married for five years. Most of the time, I thought we were happy. We had a nice life, good jobs, and a comfortable home. But there was always something missing. I wanted children. A real family. David always dodged the topic. He’d say things like, “Let’s enjoy life a little longer,” or “Kids change everything, you know.” I wasn’t sure if he’d ever be ready. So when he suggested a vacation by the

Jake and I had spent our entire childhood making bets—who could run faster, climb higher, or take the biggest risk. It was never about winning or losing. It was about the thrill, the push, the unspoken bond we had. But years later, when I won our final bet, there was no victory—only heartbreak, the kind I never saw coming. Our friendship started before we could even walk. Our moms loved to tell the story: two toddlers in diapers, fighting over a toy truck at daycare. They thought it was funny

When Eric insisted on paying for our first date, I thought I had met a true gentleman. He brought roses, gave me a thoughtful gift, and held the most charming conversation. He was checking all the right boxes. But when he texted me the next day, I expected a sweet follow-up. Instead, my stomach dropped as I read his message. My best friend, Mia, had meant well when she offered to set me up. But her matchmaking skills? Completely untested. “He’s super nice, Kelly! A total gentleman. You’ll love him,”