Phyllis greeted me at the door with a hug that smelled of lilies and greed. Lunch had barely reached the table when she slid a leather folder across from me. Beside it sat a fountain pen and a woman carrying a notary stamp—someone I had never seen before. “Just the property formality, dear,” Phyllis said sweetly. “Then we can all relax before the baby comes.” Garrett pushed the pen toward me with one finger, watching carefully.

I refused to touch it. Before anyone could pressure me further, the doorbell rang. Phyllis returned moments later looking strangely pale. Behind her stood a pregnant young woman with red-rimmed eyes. I recognized her as Sierra. Lauren followed carrying another folder. Sierra stared directly at Garrett. “You told me you were divorced,” she whispered. Then she turned toward me and delivered the words that changed everything: “I’m the one who called your lawyer.”

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