Chapter 1

In the tenth year of my marriage to Sienna, the spots for our transfer back to the city finally opened up.

But with only two slots available, Sienna was clearly troubled.

"Caleb, I want to take Quinton back with me," she said, her eyes avoiding mine.

"You know his health is fragile, and he's the son of my mentor. I owe it to his father to look after him."

In my past life, I had refused to accept this ridiculous decision. I fought, begged, and pleaded until she finally agreed to take our son, Andy, instead.

But because of a sudden high fever that couldn't be treated in time in this remote village, Quinton died anyway.

Sienna had acted like it was just fate, but after the funeral, she intentionally left our son out in a blizzard. She let him freeze to death, all to get back at me.

This time, I didn't argue. I didn't scream. I just patted Andy's back as I rocked him to sleep.

"Whatever you decide is fine," I said quietly. "I'll listen to you."

1.

Sienna froze for a moment when she heard my response.

She was used to me throwing a fit every time she showed favoritism toward Quinton.

She stood there for a long time, watching me and our son. Finally, she clenched her fists and made a promise.

"The two spots are just temporary, Caleb."

"You're my husband. Once I get settled in the city, I'll find a way to bring you and Andy back too."

I just nodded dismissively.

I knew better. In my previous life, new spots did open up ten years later.

But by then, Andy and I were long dead. Sienna had spent those years raising Quinton's child as her own, paying for his college and even helping him find a wife.

That was when I realized my gut feelings weren't just paranoia.

Sienna and Quinton had been involved long before we ever left. They even had a child together in secret.

I closed my eyes, feeling a hollow ache in my chest.

It was the raw pain of betrayal and years of being lied to.

Looking at the small, warm bundle in my arms, I made a silent vow. This time, I wouldn't let anyone take him from me.

The city wasn't that great anyway.

As long as I was with my son, anywhere could be paradise.

Sienna saw the faint smile on my face and leaned down, trying to kiss us both.

I instinctively pulled away. Before she could react, a voice shouted from outside.

"Dr. Miller! Quinton says he's feeling sick again! He needs you!"

Sienna straightened up instantly. The soft expression on her face vanished, replaced by intense worry.

She didn't hesitate for a second. She rushed out the door to follow the messenger.

Once she was gone, I waited for Andy to fall deep asleep. Then, I picked up the phone and called my father.

"Dad, I want to bring Andy back home to the ranch."

My father was silent for a second, then his voice erupted with joy.

"Coming home? That's the best news I've heard in years! You should've left that middle-of-nowhere town ages ago!"

"Did Sienna finally come to her senses? That's a miracle. Don't worry, your mother and I will slaughter a hog to celebrate…"

Hearing his excitement made my heart ache with guilt.

But I couldn't keep the truth from him forever. After a brief hesitation, I interrupted him.

"Dad, it's just me and Andy."

"Sienna isn't coming."