Chapter 2

I lifted my eyes to meet his.

He wore a crisp white shirt that accentuated his tall, lean frame and sharp, chiseled features. His eyes radiated nothing but cold indifference.

Even at thirty, he was still impossibly handsome.

But was I really so much worse?

We had once been a golden couple in the entertainment industry, the perfect match.

Seven years ago, I became the youngest actress ever to win Best Actress, earning both fame and fortune.

Then, I got pregnant.

Hank had gently placed his hand on my belly, filled with concern. "Adrienne, now that you're pregnant, you should stop filming. It's too dangerous."

I nodded eagerly, brimming with joy and anticipation for our child.

Then Alex was born prematurely.

He weighed only 4.6 pounds, no bigger than the palm of my hand. A fragile, delicate bundle curled up in an incubator.

Guilt and love overwhelmed me. I postponed my return to acting again, devoting myself entirely to caring for him.

When he first learned to say "Mommy", he cupped my face in his tiny hands and said, "Mommy, you're so pretty. You're the most beautiful mommy in the world."

When had he stopped calling me "Mommy"? When had I become nothing more than an "old hag" to him?

I let out a bitter laugh and shattered their illusions. "The contract for the kids' show is already signed. If you don't want me there, pay the breach of contract fee."

Time passed quickly. I had just finished drafting the divorce papers when it was time for the show's recording.

Growing Together was a live-streamed variety show featuring six families.

Besides my family, Suzanne appeared with her niece, Vicky. Singer, Aaron Banks, joined with his younger brother, Jesse Banks. Three other families were ordinary parents and children.

"Hank, you're finally here!"

Suzanne's tone was sweet and coy as she sauntered toward us, a taunting smile playing on her lips.

She didn't even need to make an effort. My husband and son would naturally gravitate toward her.

Like a cannonball, Alex hurtled past me, full of joy as he dashed into her arms.

I wasn't prepared for the sudden shove. I stumbled forward, nearly falling.

When I finally regained my balance and turned around, no one noticed my awkwardness.

Alex clung to Suzanne, chattering happily as he snuggled against her.

Hank stood protectively by their side.

They looked more like a family.

It wasn't just my own perception, even the online viewers agreed.