“My friend just had a baby,” my husband said coldly. “She’s moving in for six months, and you’ll take care of her.” I smiled and answered, “Of course.”

done.

I switched off my phone and shut my eyes.

For the first time in weeks, I slept without worry.

Part 2

Saturday morning, I cleaned the entire house until every room looked ready for a real-estate listing.

Fresh flowers decorated the dining table. The towels in the guest room were neatly folded. Even Daniel seemed impressed.

“Knew you’d come around,” he said.

At noon, a black SUV entered the driveway.

Vanessa climbed out wearing oversized sunglasses and carrying a designer diaper bag. Her mother followed behind with two suitcases,