My first thoughts were not about luxury or travel, because I imagined Mason going to the best schools and growing up without fear of money or uncertainty.
I pictured Ethan coming home finally relieved from the stress he always carried, and I believed that this was the miracle that would save our family.
Tears ran down my face as I laughed and cried at the same time, holding my son close while he giggled without understanding anything.
I placed the ticket safely inside my bag, grabbed Mason, and rushed out of the house because I wanted to surprise Ethan with the news.
I took a taxi to his company’s office in downtown Phoenix, my heart racing with excitement and hope.
The receptionist greeted me politely, and I asked her not to announce me because I wanted the moment to be a surprise.
Ethan’s office door was slightly open, and I raised my hand to knock before a sound stopped me.
A woman’s laughter drifted out, low and intimate in a way that immediately made my chest tighten.
Then I heard Ethan’s voice, softer than I had ever heard it before, filled with warmth that was never meant for me.