When my Husband Killed Our Child, I ruined his Empire novel
I drew in a sharp breath, my fingers tightening around the phone. I know, Attorney. And Im grateful for that, I said, forcing calm into my voice even as my chest tightened. But draft the divorce papers anyway. Five days. By then, Ill have someone to manage the company and arrange everything.
Mrs. Valdez
I will not live with a man who killed our child, I interrupted, my voice breaking, just so his mistresss child would live.
There was silence on the line, heavy and suffocating. Before the lawyer could say another word, I hung up.
The click echoed through my room, and for a moment, all I could hear was the faint hum of the air conditioner. My knees trembled, my heart thudded painfully, and I sank into my chair, pressing my hands over my face.
Images flashed behind my closed eyesthe laughter, the promises, the warmth that had once filled our home. The illusion of love I had fought so hard to believe in.
Two weeks ago, I thought I was the luckiest woman alive.
Back then, I was glowing with joy, clutching a small pregnancy test in my trembling hands. The faint pink line had changed everythingI was going to be a mother again. After years of grief, after losing our son to kidney failure, I finally had hope.
I remembered standing in front of the mirror, smiling through tears as I whispered, Were going to be parents again, Johan. Maybe this time, everything will be okay.
I had planned a surprisedinner, candles, his favorite wine. I wanted to see that smile again, the one that used to make me feel like I was safe. But as fate would have it, my surprise never came to life.
That night, I went to his office. I carried the sonogram photo in my bag, ready to show him. But before I even reached the door, I froze.
youre still keeping Danica even though your son with Ella is already five years old? a voice saida man I recognized as one of Johans friends. What if she finds out?
My blood ran cold.
Johans voice came next, low and steady. Shell never know. She thinks our son died because there was no kidney donor.
A pause.
But the truth? Johans tone hardened. I gave the kidney to my son with Ella. Danica wouldve never survived the truth. Shes too fragile.
He continued, voice calmtoo calm. You know its common in our family. Even I needed a kidney transplant when I was a child. Its hereditary. My son with Ella was dying, and I had no choice. I couldnt risk him, not when hes my blood my real heir.
Those words hit me harder than any blow. My real heir.
I felt my heart shatter as I realizedour son had died, not because there was no donor, not because medicine failed us, but because Johan chose to save someone elses child. Ella, my best friend.
He continued, his words slicing through me like knives. Besides, I dont want a child with her. The only reason I married her was because her father begged me to. He was dying, and he promised me the company if I took care of her. I pitied her. Thats all.
Pity. That word shattered me. Everythingour vows, our life, our lovehad been built on pity and lies.
My fingers clutched the sonogram inside my bag until the paper crumpled. My knees gave way, and I leaned against the wall, biting my lip to stop the scream clawing its way up my throat.
I couldnt breathe. I couldnt think.
The next thing I remembered was sitting in my car, staring blankly ahead, my tears blurring the city lights. I didnt know how long I stayed thereminutes, hours, maybe foreveruntil I realized I had made my decision.
That was the night I stopped being his wife.
Now, sitting in my room two weeks later, I still felt that same hollow ache. I tried to breathe through it, to steady myself, but the memory clung to me like smoke.
I was wiping my tears when I heard the door open.
Danica?
My body stiffened. His voice.
Johan stepped inside, tall and composed as always, his dark hair perfectly styled, the faint scent of his cologne filling the room. To anyone else, he still looked like the perfect husbandsuccessful, calm, devoted. But I could see the monster behind the mask.
Hey, he said softly, walking closer. Whats wrong? Why are you crying?
I forced a smile that didnt reach my eyes. Nothing.
He frowned, setting his briefcase down. Im sorry I couldnt come home last night. There was a last-minute meeting at work.
A lie. I knew exactly where he wasat Ellas condominium. The woman who had shared secrets, laughter, dreams with me and my husbands bed.
I didnt answer. Instead, I stood up slowly and faced him.
Here.
He blinked as I slipped the wedding ring off my finger and placed it on the desk between us. The metal clinked softly, final, like the closing of a door.
What is this? he asked, his brow furrowing.
Im drafting the divorce papers, I said, my voice calm though my hands shook. Five days, Johan. Lets part ways then.
Im drafting the divorce papers, I said, my voice calm though my hands shook. Five days, Johan. Lets part ways then.
Johan blinked, as if I had spoken another language. What are you saying? His voice was incredulous, a mocking laugh following. In five days? Thats our anniversary, Danica. Didnt we promise to celebrate it like before?
I laughed, but it came out hollow, bitter. Like before? I repeated. You mean the last five years when you never showed up? When you sent flowers and cards from god-knows-where while you were out celebrating business?
He froze, his jaw tightening.
I didnt stop. I used to tell myself it was businessthat you were busy keeping Fathers company afloat. I made excuses for you, for every late night, every unanswered call. I believed in you. But now I know better. You even spend more time with Ella!
He ran a hand through his hair, his tone rising with irritation. Youre being ridiculous, Danica. Youre angry, fine, I get it. But dont bring divorce into this again. I can definitely make it up for it. This is ridiculous. And Ella? You know shes my secretary. You told me to hire her! So why are you bringing her into this?
I should bring her into this, I snapped. Shes been in our lives since the beginning. She was supposed to be my best friend, and yet shes the one you go home to, isnt she? Youve been fooling me, both of you.
Johan laughed under his breathcold, dismissive. So thats what this is about? Youre jealous?
No, I whispered, my heart breaking at the sound of his voice. Im done. I dont love you anymore, Johan. So lets divorce.
His laughter grew louder this time, almost cruel. Divorce me? Youre serious? He leaned closer, his eyes darkening. No, you cant do that. Where would you even go? Youre an orphan, Danica. You dont have anyone or anything without me. Do you expect me to hand you money after you walk away?
My hands clenched into fists. I dont need your money.
He snorted, grabbed my hand, and shoved the wedding ring back into my palm. Dont be ridiculous, he muttered. Then he pulled a sleek black card from his wallet and dropped it onto the table. Heremy black card. Buy yourself something nice. Thats better than talking nonsense about divorce.
I could only laugh, but it came out broken. You think money fixes everything?
He stepped back, already looking bored. I wont be home later. I have a meeting
Before he could finish, the sting of my palm cracked against his cheek. The sound echoed across the room.
For a second, everything froze.
Then his expression shifted, rage replacing shock. His hand shot outand for the first time, Johan slapped me back. The impact sent me stumbling, my cheek burning with humiliation and pain.
What the hell is wrong with you? he shouted, his chest heaving.
But before I could even speak, a small voice broke through the tension.
Bad!
We both turned. Little John stood by the doorway, clutching a small toy car in his hand. His big brown eyesJohans eyeswere wide with confusion. Why are you slapping Daddy?
My stomach twisted. I had always let the child call Johan 'Daddy' because Ella told me his father didnt want him, as it was from a one-night stand. I pitied him. I loved him in my own quiet way, thinking I was helping a friends child heal. But now I realized the cruel truth.
He wasnt fatherless. He was Johans son.
Before I could say anything, Ellas voice drifted from the hall. Oh sorry.
She appeared beside the boy, her face painted with concern, her tone dripping with practiced sweetness. Is it a bad time? John wanted to visit. He misses everyone. But I guess we should go.
No, Johan cut in quickly, brushing past me. Were going out. Without her. He threw a sharp look at me. How dare you even think of divorce?
Ella put a delicate hand to her chest. Danica, why would you do that? Did something happen?
Dont act innocent, I hissed.
She blinked, feigning confusion. Did Johan upset you again? Should I scold him for you?
Her tone made me sick. I used to confide everything in herevery fight, every pain. She knew me better than anyone, or so I thought. And yet she had been smiling in my face while betraying me behind my back.
Stop pretending you care, I snapped. You know the reason Im doing this.
Ella tilted her head. Oh, is this about that guy you told me about?
What? Johan turned sharply. What guy?
I froze. Ella, what the hell
Is she using the cheating card even if its not true?
Wait, he said, glaring at me. Are you cheating on me?
I stared at him in disbelief. Youre accusing me?
Ella raised her hands innocently. No, no, she didnt say anything serious
Shut up! I shouted, my voice breaking. You traitor! That is not true.
Johans face darkened. He grabbed my arm roughly and dragged me toward our room. You want a divorce so you can cheat on me? Is that it?
Let go of me! I struggled, but his grip only tightened.
No, he growled. Youre not leaving this house until you come to your senses.
He shoved me into the room and slammed the door, the lock clicking in place. I heard his footsteps retreating, then the front door closing as they leftJohan, Ella, and their son.
The silence that followed was suffocating.
I sank to the floor, my chest heaving, my palms trembling. My reflection in the mirror looked like someone elsesomeone broken, betrayed, and bleeding on the inside.
Tears streamed down my cheeks as I pressed a hand to my stomach. Im sorry, baby, I whispered, my voice cracking. But I have to let you go now. Your father doesnt want you.
Outside, the sound of their car engine roared to life, fading into the distance. And I was left alonelocked away, clutching my belly, and praying for strength.
Five days, I whispered to myself, closing my eyes. Just five days and Ill be free.
The next morning, I was woken by the sound of soft knocking. My eyes were swollen from crying all night, my throat dry from screaming into the emptiness of the locked room. I didnt even want to open the doorbut then I heard her voice.
Danica its me.
Ella.
My whole body stiffened.
The door creaked open, and there she wasmy best friend, the woman who had betrayed me in the most unforgivable way. Her eyes were red as if she had been crying, but I didnt buy it for a second. Without asking, she stepped inside and hugged me tightly.
Im sorry, she whispered against my shoulder. I didnt mean to do it, I swear. You know how things just got out of hand.
I froze, my hands still at my sides. Got out of hand? I echoed bitterly, pulling back.
Yes, she rushed out. I thought you were just talking about Brendon, thats all. You told me once you remembered himyour first love. I thought maybe you reconciled, and thats why you were asking Johan for a divorce.
I stared at her, dumbfounded. Seriously? My voice rose. Thats your excuse? You thought I was getting a divorce because of Brendon? Not because youve been sleeping with my husband for years?
Her lips parted, pretending to be offended. Of course not! Youre my best friend, Dani. I would never
The sting of my hand connecting with her cheek stopped her words cold.
Her head snapped to the side, her palm flying to her face. What the?
Do you think Id be a fool not to know? My voice trembled with rage and heartbreak. Youre sleeping with my husband, Ella. And Johnyour sonis his son, isnt he?
For a moment, her face was a portrait of fake innocence. Then it cracked. Her lips curled into a faint, mocking smile, and a quiet laugh escaped her.
Oh, God, she said, shaking her head. Im so tired of acting. She met my eyes, her tone dripping with venomous amusement. Good to know you finally figured it out.
My stomach twisted, but I stood my ground.
So what now? she continued, smirking. Are you going to leave him?
I swallowed hard, forcing the tears back. He doesnt want to divorce me, I said, each word deliberate. So you better do something about it.
Ella tilted her head and chuckled. Dont worry. I will. Just make sure you actually go through with it.
Fine, I said, taking off my wedding ring. The gold glinted under the morning light as I held it out to her. Here. Wear it. Be happy. Youve already taken everything else.
She hesitated for a second before taking it, her smirk softening into a mock pout. Well, thanks, Danica. Thank you for giving me your husbandi, she murmured as I brushed past her.
I didnt answer.
As I stepped out of the room, a small voice called from the living room. Auntie Dani!
It was John. He was clutching a toy car, his face lighting up the moment he saw me. Look! Daddy fixed it!
For a brief second, I froze. I used to adore this boy. I used to hold him, feed him, even read him bedtime stories when Ella was too busy pretending to work. He used to call me Auntie with such sweetness that I forgot the pain of losing my own son.
But now, every time I saw his face, all I could see was betrayal.
Im busy, John, I said quietly.
He frowned. No! Please, Auntie! Look, it can move now! He pushed the toy toward me eagerly.
I stepped back, shaking my head. Not now, John.
But he followed me, tugging at my dress, insisting. Please, Auntie! Just look!
Something inside me snapped. My voice broke as I tried to pull away. I said Im busy!
He stumbled, and before I could catch him, he fell to the floor, the toy shattering beside him. His small body shook as he started to cryloud, heart-wrenching sobs that pierced the silence.
Within seconds, Ella rushed into the room, horror written on her face. What did you do?!
It was an accident, I said quickly, but she was already cradling her son, glaring at me like I was a monster.
Whats going on here? Johans voice boomed from the doorway. His gaze darted from me to the crying child, and his expression hardened.
Seriously, Danica? he hissed. This is why you dont deserve to be a mother. You cant even take care of a child properly!
I felt my throat tighten.
This, he said, gesturing toward John, is why well never have another child. Im giving my heir to him. Ill adopt him officially. He deserves it more than you ever will.
I swallowed the lump in my throat. My voice came out soft, almost calm. Okay. Do whatever you want.
He blinked, thrown off by my indifference. Thats it? You dont care? His voice dropped. Is it true then? Are you seeing another man?
What? I whispered, incredulous.
He turned to Ella. She said something about a guy. Who is it?
Ella raised her hands again, feigning innocence. Johan, enough. Please dont hurt her. Shes my best friend, remember?
He looked between us, jaw tight, then sighed. Be thankful Ellas kind, Danica. Now apologize to John.
I clenched my fists, but I couldnt bear another fight. I knelt down, my voice trembling. Im sorry, John. I didnt mean to scare you.
He sniffled, nodding. Its okay, Auntie. We can play later?
Sure, I said softly. Well play later.
But I knew there would be no later.
As soon as I got to my room, I locked the door and sank onto the bed. My mind was spinning, my heart breaking all over again.
Brendon.
The name echoed in my head. The man Id once loved. The one Id left behind for Johanbecause my father had begged me to marry into a powerful family that could protect me.
Maybe Ellas gossip about him wasnt so wrong after all. Maybe I could use it to my advantage.
My hands trembled as I picked up my phone and scrolled through my contacts. My heart raced when I saw his nameBrendon Castillo.
I hesitated for a moment, then pressed call.
The line rang once. Twice. Then
Hello? His voice was deep, familiar, and gentle.
Its me, I whispered. Danica.
There was a pause. Danica? He sounded stunned. After all these years
I took a shaky breath. Are you still a bachelor?
He laughed softly, surprised. I yeah, I guess.
Good, I said. My voice wavered, but I steadied it. Because I need to ask you something important.
What is it?
I closed my eyes, my heart hammering in my chest. Do you want to marry me?
The silence on the other end stretched long enough for me to hear my own heartbeat. Then came a quiet laughsoft, familiar, and edged with disbelief.
Marry you now? Brendon said, amusement lacing his tone. After you broke my heart back then? Its been seven years, Danica. What happened to your perfect husbandJohan?
I swallowed hard, staring at my reflection in the mirrorpale, hollow-eyed, the woman I barely recognized. He betrayed me, I said, my voice trembling but steady enough to carry the truth. He killed our son. And I cant live with him anymore.
There was silence again. Then a sigh. Danica
Forget it, I said quickly, my throat tightening. If you dont love me anymoreif youre married or happy now, thats okay. I shouldnt have called.
I was about to hang up when his voice stopped me.
Who says I dont love you? His tone softened, warm and sure. Seven years didnt change that. You mightve hurt me, but I never stopped caring. If you really want to do this, then finelets see each other again. Ill pick you up, and well get married.
I froze. For the first time in so long, I felt something crack through the numbnessa glimmer of hope or madness, I didnt know which.
Is there anything else you want me to do? he asked gently.
Nothing, I whispered. Just dont make me regret calling you for help.
And before he could say another word, I hung up.
I stared at the phone in my hand, my chest rising and falling rapidly. The room felt smaller somehow, my heart heavier yet lighter all at once. I exhaled shakily. Thats better now.
After all, Brendon had once been my entire world.
I sank onto the edge of the bed, memories flooding backhis laugh echoing through the empty classroom, his hand brushing mine under the bleachers, his promise that someday wed see the world together.
We were high school sweetheartstwo dreamers who thought love could conquer everything. Hed even saved enough to buy a ring back then, cheap and simple, but it meant the world to us. We were supposed to get married after college.
But life had other plans.
When my father got sick, everything fell apart. My fathers company was in debt, and his business partnerJohans fatheroffered help. The price? My hand in marriage to Johan.
Brendon begged me not to do it. He promised hed work hard, that wed make it somehow. But I was scared. I was young and lost. I thought marrying Johan would keep me safe.
And for a while, I tried to believe I was happy. I learned to love him, or at least I thought I did. But now, looking back, it all felt like a carefully woven lie.
I snapped out of my thoughts and stood abruptly. I couldnt stay here any longernot in this house filled with memories that werent even real.
I opened my closet and began to pack, one item at a time. Dresses. Shoes. Photographs. Each thing I touched felt heavier than the last. My wedding gown was still hanging at the far end, wrapped in plastic. I stared at it for a long moment, then tore it down.
By the time I finished, I was shaking. I gathered everything Johan had given methe gifts, the jewelry, even the lettersand carried them to the backyard. The night air was cold against my skin. I struck a match, watched the flame catch, and tossed it all into the fire pit.
The gold bracelet hed once clasped around my wrist melted into the flames, turning black. I watched until everything turned to ash, until there was nothing left of us.
The doorbell rang just as I turned back inside.
I frowned, wiping my tears quickly before opening the door. A man stood there holding a box.
Delivery for Mrs. Johan Valdez, he said, handing it over.
Delivery? I echoed. I didnt order anything.
Its prepaid, he said, then left before I could question further.
Curious, I opened it. Inside was a limited-edition Audrey Hepburn figurineelegant, poised, and delicate. My breath caught. I loved collecting them. Johan used to tease me for it.
For a moment, I thoughtmaybe, just maybeit was an apology gift. That perhaps he remembered something that mattered to me.
But then I heard footsteps behind me.
Dont touch that.
I turned. Johan stood in the doorway, dressed sharply in a suit, his expression cold. He snatched the box from my hands.
This is for Ellas birthday, he said flatly.
I blinked. What?
I wont be here the next few days, he added. Business trip.
A bitter laugh escaped my lips. Of course. Business trip.
Danica, come on, he sighed, rubbing his temple. Are you mad again? Okay, Im sorry. He reached into his pocket, pulling out something smalla cheap replica of the same figurineand handed it to me. Here, to make it up to you.
The fake one. Of course.
He leaned in to kiss me, but I turned away. Never mind, he muttered, straightening up. Just do whatever you want.
Before I could reply, a loud, frantic knock echoed from outside. Then a voice.
Johan! Help! Pleasesomethings wrong!
It was Ella.
Johans expression changed instantly, panic flashing across his face. What happened?
Its John, she sobbed. Hes sick again! Please, come quick!
And just like that, he was gone.
I stood there, staring at the empty doorway, the silence pressing in like a suffocating blanket. Once again, I was left aloneforgotten, dismissed, discarded.
I pressed a trembling hand against my stomach. The tiny life growing inside me didnt deserve this.
Tears blurred my vision as I whispered, Im sorry, baby but I have to let you go now. Your father doesnt want you.
That night, I went to the hospital. I signed the papers with shaking hands, the nurses words barely reaching me as the tears fell silently.
This procedure are you sure, maam?
Yes, I said, my voice breaking. Im sure.
As the anesthesia started to pull me under, the last thing I whispered was a promise to the child Id never meet
Ill find peace. Even if I have to burn everything to get it.
The hospital corridors smelled of antiseptic and silence. I walked out clutching a small white envelope, the paper inside still warm from the printer. Certificate of Abortion. The words felt heavy, cruelfinal.
At the nurses desk, they handed me a tiny sealed box. We thought you might want to keep something, she said softly. Inside was a single silver braceletone Id bought weeks ago, engraved with a name that would never be used: Liam. My baby boy who never even had a chance.
I went home in a cab, the city lights passing in a blur. Every honk, every sound outside felt distant, unreal. When I arrived, I placed the box on the bed. Then I opened my drawer and pulled out everything that still tied me to Johanthe marriage certificate, the ultrasound photo, the wedding ring he once slipped onto my finger, the dried rose from our first anniversary, even the letter my father had written before he died, asking Johan to take care of me.
One by one, I placed them all inside the box, my fingers trembling as I closed the lid. This is it, I whispered. The end of us.
When I stepped out of my room, I could hear laughter coming from the living roombright, carefree laughter that cut deep.
Ella and little John were there, both smiling as they packed a pile of beach clothes into suitcases. John looked up, grinning widely when he saw me. Auntie Danica! he chirped. Come on! Were going on a cruise! Are you coming with us?
I froze, my hand tightening around the handle of the box. Before I could answer, Johan emerged from the hallway, adjusting his watch like a man already halfway out the door.
No, he said curtly. Shes not coming with us. Someone needs to stay and manage the house. He didnt even glance at me. Danica will do that.
Ella chuckled, pretending to look apologetic. Oh, you know how business trips are. I cant let Johan travel alone as his secretary, and for John, I cant leave him alone to you like before, I meanyou might well, get tired easily. And hes really naughty. You should rest, sweetheart. Her tone was sweet, but her eyes were mocking.
I looked at her, then at Johan. For the first time, I didnt feel pain. Just an eerie calm. Okay, I said simply, setting the box on the counter. Have fun.
They both blinked, as if surprised by my lack of emotion.
Johan frowned, irritation flashing in his eyes. Why do you suddenly not care? he asked, his tone sharp. What, no argument? No questions? No begging?
I turned to him, my voice quiet but cutting. What do you want me to say, Johan? That Ill cry and make a scene again? You said its a business trip, right? So Im trying to be understanding.
He scoffed, clearly thrown off balance.
Besides, I added calmly, Im leaving soon too.
His head snapped up. Leaving? What do you mean, leaving? Where are you going?
To the province, I said, meeting his eyes. To visit my fathers grave. Its their death anniversary after our anniversary. Remember?
For a second, guilt flickered in his gaze. He sighed, trying to sound sincere. Danica, look, I know Ive been busy. But Ill follow you after the cruise, okay? Well visit your parents together.
I smiled faintly. Sure.
He looked relieved, like a man who had just averted a fight. He reached into his briefcase and pulled out a few documents. Alsocould you sign these? Just some papers for the company. Minor things, nothing serious.
I took them without a word. I knew exactly what they wereauthorization forms meant to transfer a portion of my shares to his name. But Id already taken care of that with my lawyer days ago. Everything had been moved under a trust he couldnt touch.
Still, I signed the papers smoothly, my hand steady. He smiled, unaware that the game was already over.
Thanks, he said, leaning down to kiss my forehead. Ill see you soon, Danica. Be careful, okay?
I just nodded. Ill be careful. You too!
As they prepared to leave, Ella approached me, her smile bright and venomous. Goodbye, Dani, she said softly. When we come back, I hope we can talk properly. Clear the air, you know? But between us girls maybe you should take this chance to think about leaving. Its better for everyone.
I met her gaze, my lips curving into a faint smile. Dont worry, I said, my voice calm and certain. When you come back, Ill make sure Johan regrets everything he ever did to me.
For the first time, her smile faltered.
Then she grabbed Johns hand, forcing a laugh. Well see, Dani. Take care!
And just like that, they leftlaughing, hand in hand, as if they hadnt just destroyed everything Id once held sacred.
I waited until the sound of the car engine faded completely. Then I stood there in the silence, taking one last look around the house that never felt like home.
The portraits on the wall mocked meour wedding photo, our family gatherings, fake smiles that now looked sinister. I walked to the center of the room and placed the wooden box gently on the coffee table. My entire pastmy pain, my losses, my lovefit neatly inside that box.
I put a note on the box and wrote, Happy anniversary, my ex husband. Goodbye!
A black limousine pulled up outside moments later. I straightened my blouse, wiped the last trace of tears from my face, and stepped out the door.
Brendon was leaning casually against the car, a faint smile tugging at his lips. He looked older now, sharper, but his eyes still carried that same steady warmth I remembered.
Ready? he asked simply.
I nodded. Ready.
As we drove away from the house I once called home, I didnt look back. I clenched my fist tightly and swore that one of these days, I would make sure they would regret everything they did to me.
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