Whispers of Deceit.

Chapter 18

"We can't wait to see what you create. We're really excited to be working with you, Natalia."

I smile into the camera. "Thank you—honestly, I'm thrilled to be part of this. Just send over the brief, and I'll start on a rough draft for each character. From there, we can shape something really special together."

After a few more thank-yous and goodbyes, I end the call and sit back in my chair, stunned for a moment. I've done it. I've officially landed the biggest clients of my career—Netflix. They're developing a new series, and I'm the one they've chosen to help bring their characters to life. It's a huge opportunity—and it comes with a serious bonus to match.

I log off for the day and shut my laptop with a satisfying click. The house is still, Jared's been at work since 7am and won't be home for hours. It's just shy of 4pm, and my stomach is starting to grumble. I wander into the kitchen and swing open the fridge, staring blankly at its underwhelming contents.

Breeze meows at my feet like clockwork, rubbing against my legs. I crouch down and scoop her up, pressing a kiss to her soft little head.

"Your mum is about to be rich," I tell her with a grin.

She purrs as I scratch behind her ears, then promptly squirms out of my arms, her usual cue that I've overstayed my welcome.

Back to the fridge. Still uninspiring. After today's meeting, this day deserves a bit of celebration—champagne, a good dinner, maybe something indulgent. I grab my car keys and head out.

The drive to the supermarket is short—ten minutes, if that. I park near the front, grab a basket, and head inside.

I make a detour to the personal care aisle first. We're out of pregnancy tests, and I already know Jared will bring it up soon. I reach for the cheapest box—they all do the same thing, and there's no point blowing money on the fancy ones since they are never going to say positive on them. I toss it in the basket along with a few toiletries.

As I turn the corner into a different aisle, I freeze. My stomach drops. Jake.

Of all the people.

I instinctively try to retreat, but it's too late—he's already spotted me.

"Natalia, hey! Long time no see," he says with that same easy smile I remember from when we were teenagers.

I plaster on a polite one of my own. "Hey, Jake. How are you?"

As soon as the words leave my mouth, I wince internally. Of course he's not okay—he's in the middle of a divorce.

He shrugs, playing it cool. "Yeah, I'm alright. Hanging in there. You?"

"Good, yeah. Busy with work." My voice sounds a little too chirpy, too fake.

His gaze flickers to my basket. Of course. The pregnancy tests are sitting right on top like a neon sign. Perfect.

He raises an eyebrow but doesn't comment. Still, the silence feels heavy.

"You've been up to much?" I ask quickly, trying to shift the conversation.

He leans on the trolley handle. "Not really. Just... getting used to things. Obviously me and Serena are, well, not good. The kids are with her this weekend, so it's weird being in the house alone. Too quiet, you know?"

I nod, even though I don't. "That must be hard."

That sounds like bliss.

"It is," he admits. Then, his eyes soften a little. "But it's good to see you. You look well."