C24 A Celebration Of Lies

I met Derek’s gaze just as he forced a smile. Without responding, I turned back to Aurora, pulling her closer.

“I won’t leave you,” I said, the words heavy on my tongue, yet steady enough to bring her comfort.

Aurora’s face lit up instantly.

“I love you, Mummy,” she said, her tiny voice ringing with innocent certainty.

My brows arched slightly at the word, but I quickly masked it