Chapter 2

The next morning, everything changed. A team of lawyers, the best in New York, appeared at my bedside. They were discreet, efficient, and clearly acting on Ethan' s orders. They reviewed my prenuptial agreement with Matthew and began drafting divorce papers.

A new doctor, a top specialist in the field, also arrived. He reviewed my case, changed my medication, and spoke to me with a kindness I hadn't realized I was missing. Ethan was moving pieces on a chessboard I couldn't even see, and his support was a silent, solid wall around me.

Matthew never came. Not once.

I saw him on social media, though. He posted a picture of himself holding the newborn, his face a mask of paternal devotion. The caption read, "My whole world in my hands. #FamilyFirst."

The hypocrisy was nauseating. My resolve hardened with every post.

After a few days, I was strong enough to walk. I took the elevator down to the VIP maternity wing. It was a different world, all soft lighting and hushed tones. Through a half-open door, I heard them.

"She's so perfect, Matthew," Maria's voice cooed.

"Just like her mother," Matthew replied, his voice thick with an affection he hadn't shown me in years.

I stood there, hidden from view, listening to them build a life on the ashes of mine. He was telling her about a new nursery he was designing, about the trips they would take. He was giving her everything he had once promised me.

The pain was sharp, but it was quickly replaced by a cold, clear rage. I walked back to my room, my steps firm. I called Matthew.

He answered, his voice impatient. "What now, Madisyn?"

"I'm in the same hospital, Matthew," I said, my voice flat. "I know you're here with her."

There was a moment of stunned silence. Then, his voice became smooth, manipulative. "Maddy, you're not thinking straight. You're emotional. This isn't what it looks like. Maria needed a sperm donor for IVF. She saved my life at that construction site, remember? It was a life debt. I was just helping her. The baby isn't mine in that way."

His twisted logic made me want to scream. I hung up the phone before I could say something I'd regret. My hands were shaking again, but this time with fury. I took a deep breath, picturing his downfall. It was the only thing that calmed me.