During my sister’s wedding, my 7-year-old son grabbed my hand and whispered, «Mom, we need to leave, now…

Lunch tomorrow. I want to tell you all the details. Caroline checked her work schedule.

That sounds good. I’m looking forward to it. After hanging up, Caroline felt mixed emotions.

She was genuinely happy for her sister, but at the same time, she was struck by a strange feeling. She reflected on her own marriage. Fifteen years ago, she and Jason had married for love.

The first few years were passionate, but after the children were born, their life had settled into a routine. Nothing was particularly wrong, but the thrill had faded. At lunch the next day, Vanessa was radiant.

She shared every detail from how she met Richard to their engagement, and Caroline listened attentively. Caroline, I’ve always wanted to be like you, Vanessa suddenly said. Always your parents’ pride.

Caroline was surprised. Me? But you’re much more successful. Vanessa shook her head.

In my career, maybe. But you have a happy family. That’s what I’ve always wanted.

Those words made Caroline pensive. The sister she had been envying was actually envying her. Ironically, she had recently begun feeling something was off in what she thought was her perfect family.

Several weeks passed, and Caroline was helping with wedding preparations between work and family responsibilities. One night, Aiden said to her before bedtime, Mom, I don’t like Uncle Richard. Why not? Caroline asked, kissing his forehead.

Because he always hides his phone when he sees me. Like he’s doing something bad. Caroline chuckled softly.

I’m sure that’s not the case. Uncle Richard is a busy businessman who deals with important information. It’s just your imagination.

Aiden didn’t seem convinced but said nothing more. Caroline told herself not to worry too much about a child’s intuition. It was probably just stress from the wedding preparations.

When she got home, Jason was talking on his cell phone in the living room. When she entered, he quickly hung up. Who were you talking to? Caroline asked.

Oh, just a work call, Jason answered, looking somewhat uneasy. Sorry I’m late. The project is running behind.

Caroline had noticed that her husband had been coming home late more often lately. Sometimes, he would go out on weekends for emergency work meetings. She told herself it was just the stress of Vanessa’s wedding making her nervous.

Their family was happy. At least, that’s what she wanted to believe. The day before the wedding, the hotel lobby was bustling with preparations for the rehearsal dinner…