My nerves were killing me as I contemplated confronting Jess or asking Lily to just tell me who it was. But I didn’t want to get my little girl too involved in this mess.
And I worried about the fallout if my wife got a heads-up. Jess told me she had to shoot an engagement session out at the lake from around one in the afternoon. I asked her why on a Sunday, on Father’s Day no less, and she mumbled something about the couple’s limited availability and how she’d promised them weeks ago.
I nodded, said I’d hold down the fort, but I could feel the weight of her lie settling between us like fog.
While she prepared her equipment that morning, I got to work. Pancakes for breakfast. A trip to the park. Lily got to pick the centerpiece for dinner at the grocery store, a lopsided sunflower bouquet. By the time we got back home, Jess was gone.
I told my wife that Lily and I were going to be out of the house the whole day, doing something extra special for the holiday. However, I shared that I’d ring up the babysitter and leave Lily with her while I went out to see my parents.
She knew not to expect me back until much later.
I made dinner and let Lily help with setting the table. I made a three-course meal that included chicken cordon bleu, garlic mashed potatoes, and roasted carrots. I poured wine. I lit candles.
At 6:07 p.m., there was a knock.
I took a deep breath, opened the door, and nearly dropped the serving tray!
Adam.
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