I’m Tom, married to Anna for 15 years, raising our vibrant 10-year-old, Ava. My finance job requires travel, but Anna keeps our home humming. Things were idyllic until Ava mentioned a “shadow” at night. I thought it was her imagination, tied to my time away. Anna always supported my trips, saying, “Your job’s important, Tom. We’re good.” Her faith was my anchor. When a week-long merger meeting came up, I trusted Anna and Ava would manage. “Need my cousin to help?” I asked. Anna grinned, “Mom’s staying.”
Anna’s mom, Ruth, arrived, teasing, “Off again, Tom?” Anna drove me to the airport, hiding candy in my bag. The trip ended early, so I picked up Ava’s favorite muffins and surprised her at home. “Dad!” she squealed, hugging me. I suggested a hot chocolate run. Over drinks, Ava said, “I saw a shadow by the stairs.” I said, “Maybe Grandma?” She replied, “Grandpa stayed with their rabbit.” I told her, “Tell me if you see it.” At home, Anna was helping Ava with science while Ruth was likely napping. I went to unpack—Anna hates suitcases lying out.
Opening our wardrobe, I froze—an older man stood among Anna’s coats, tying his scarf. “Anna!” I shouted. “Who’s this?” Anna and Ava ran in. “What’s wrong?” Anna asked, then yelped at the man. “Who are you?” Her surprise proved she didn’t know him, easing my fear of betrayal. Ava hid, “That’s the shadow!” I yelled, “Get the cops!” Ruth walked in, shocked, “Harold? You’re here?” Anna stared, “You know him?” Ruth admitted, “I’ve been dating Harold.” I sent Ava to watch cartoons. Anna sank down, “You’re cheating on Dad?”
Ruth said, “Your dad and I have problems. Harold brings me joy.” Anna asked, “Does Dad know?” Ruth said, “No, please keep it secret.” Anna left, upset. Ruth pleaded with me, “Don’t let her tell.” I said, “That’s her choice.” Ruth and Harold left. Later, Anna said, “Why our home, with Ava here?” I confessed, “I thought you were cheating.” She sighed, “I get it.” Harold was leaving, hiding when we arrived, thinking Ruth had gone. Anna said, “I can’t hide this from Dad, but I don’t want to hurt Mom.” I said, “Tell the truth. Ava’s involved.” Secrets weigh on her. I couldn’t sleep, uneasy about Harold near Ava. I’ll stand by Anna, but Ruth’s secrecy unsettled us. Share this tale—it might encourage honesty in tough moments.
