It was a lie. But if that lie would protect my children, I’d tell it without hesitation. I might be selfish, especially on days when Chiara and Thunder asked about their father, but I couldn’t let them have him.

I’d do everything to keep them safe. I could be both their mother and father. I could protect them.

"That’s not true..." His voice cracked, and his expression darkened. "Take it back.”

"It hurts me too, so stop acting like you’re the only one suffering," I replied coldly. ...