My sister had just given birth, so I went to the hospital to visit. But as I walked down the corridor, I heard my husband’s voice. “She has no idea. At least she’s good for money.” Then my mother chimed in. “You two deserve to be happy. She’s nothing but a failure.” My sister laughed and said, “Thanks. I’ll make sure we are happy.”

“Tell Sierra I’m proud of her.”

Hours later, those words would echo in my head differently.

But that morning, they sounded harmless.

Lakeside Medical Center smelled faintly of antiseptic and burnt coffee.

The maternity ward was quieter than I expected. Sunlight filtered through narrow windows and reflected off polished tile floors. Nurses moved efficiently. Visitors whispered softly. Balloons floated outside several doors.

I approached the reception desk.

“Hi, I’m here for Sierra Adams.”

The receptionist smiled and pointed down the hallway.

“Room 312.”

My heels tapped lightly against the floor as I walked.

Then I heard it.

Kevin’s voice.

Clear.

Unmistakable.

At first, confusion washed over me. Maybe his meeting had been canceled. Maybe he wanted to surprise me.

I slowed down.

The door to Room 312 was slightly open.

I hadn’t intended to eavesdrop.

But then I heard him laugh.

“She still believes every word I say.”

The gift bag shifted in my hand.

“She thinks all the late nights are business. Meanwhile she keeps paying the bills. She’s perfect for that.”

The air left my lungs.

Another voice joined in.

My mother.