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I'm perched on the couch in my apartment, glancing at my watch to find that Sophia is running late. The knot of anticipation in my stomach tightens, knowing that a significant turning point is approaching. My lawyer brokered an agreement with Sophia's legal representative, finally paving the way for me to spend time with Nicholas. It's a crucial juncture, one that propels me toward my goal - securing full custody of my son.
The doorbell chimes, and I rise from my seat, a curious mix of surprise and bewilderment rushing over me. Opening the door, I'm taken aback to find Emma standing on the threshold. My astonishment briefly gives way to politeness as I usher her inside, the unspoken question hanging heavy in the air.
Her presence radiates a palpable unease, visible in the way she fidgets slightly and the nervous glances she casts around the room. I can't help but wonder what has prompted her unexpected visit.
"What brings you here?" I question.
Emma's gaze remains fixed on the floor, a hint of apprehension in her demeanor. "There's something you should know."
My brow furrows in response. "Nicholas will be here shortly."
Her voice carries a mixture of determination and guilt as she hands me a file. "It pertains to Nicholas. I understand if this changes things between us. But I can't keep concealing the truth."
I glance down at the file she's handed me, my eyes locking on the name "Sophia" written on the front. A tight knot forms in my stomach, a telltale sign that the contents within hold significance. The implication of what Emma might drive at hit me square in the chest.
A conflicted swirl of emotions engulfs me. I'm torn between wanting to read the information, to confront whatever truth lies within, and an innate desire to shield myself from the potential upheaval. Part of me yearns to preserve the lies I've convinced myself of, while another craves the raw, unfiltered reality.
I make my way over to the sofa and lower myself onto it, the weight of the file heavy in my hands. With a deep breath, I open it and sift through its contents. As I read, the truth unfolds before me - Emma has taken the step of reaching out to the private detective, extending the investigation to include Sophia as well.
The realization hits me like a punch to the gut. Anger wells up within me, my gaze shifting toward Emma. A glare forms on my face, a silent accusation of betrayal as I grapple with the fact that she's gone behind my back in this way.
My perusal of the file comes to an abrupt halt as I stumble upon details related to Nicholas. A mix of shock and frustration washes over me, the realization that Emma has delved into such personal territory hitting hard. I slam the file shut, my anger simmering beneath the surface, threatening to boil over. Pushing the file in her direction, I stand up with an agitated energy coursing through me. My fists involuntarily clench at my sides, a physical manifestation of the intense emotions swirling within.
