My sister had just had a baby, so I went to the hospital to see her. But as I walked along the corridor, I heard my husband’s voice. “She doesn’t suspect anything. At least she’s good for money.” Then my mother spoke up. “You both deserve happiness. She’s just a failure.” My sister laughed and replied, “Thanks. I’ll make sure we are happy.” I said nothing and turned away. But what happened next left them all stunned.

The maternity ward was quieter than I expected, sunlight slipping through narrow windows, reflecting off polished tile floors. Nurses moved with efficient calm. Visitors whispered. Balloons bobbed outside room doors.

I approached the reception desk.

“Hi, I’m here for Sierra Adams,” I said brightly.

The receptionist smiled and pointed down the corridor.

“Room 312.”

My heels tapped softly as I walked.

And then I heard it.

Kevin’s voice.