Noticing that after her mother-in-law’s visit to the cottage, the dog was growling at the garden beds, Emily, amidst her husband’s chuckles, decided to weed them. But digging deeper, she froze in shock at what she uncovered… 

She’d always seemed sweet to Emily. How had she not recognized her in the video? But then, she’d been too focused on James.
“Sarah?” Emily repeated, steadying her voice.

Ethan nodded, sobbing.
“She was hugging that guy, and then they kissed.”
Emily closed her eyes, calming herself.
“It was in the parking lot by the house. I flew the drone there by accident, just to look around, and saw them,” Ethan said, wiping tears with his fist.
“And you recorded it?” Emily asked, knowing the answer but needing confirmation.
“Yeah, the drone’s camera recorded it. I watched it later and felt bad for Dad. He said he’s marrying Sarah next month.”
Emily hugged Ethan—a small, fragile boy caught in something ugly.
“You’re not to blame. You just saw something others didn’t want you to. You’re a good kid,” she said, stroking his hair.
“What do I do now?” Ethan asked, looking up with tearful eyes. “I didn’t want Dad to be sad, so I sent the disc to Mrs. Margaret, ‘cause it was her son.”
“I understand. For now, act like nothing happened, and I’ll figure out what to do, okay?”
Ethan nodded, wiping his tears.
“You won’t tell my dad?” he asked, scared.
“Not yet, but I need to think. This is serious, Ethan.”
“What about Sarah?” he asked. “If she finds out, she’ll punish me.”
“I don’t know yet, but I’ll make sure you’re okay.”

Emily let Ethan go and checked the time.
“Time to head home. Promise you won’t tell anyone about this talk.”
“I promise,” he said.
“Good. Don’t worry too much,” she said, though she was unsure herself.
Ethan left, leaving her with her thoughts.

She sat at her desk, covered her face, and cried. Tears flowed, easing her pain. Calming down, Emily resolved to get to the bottom of it.

She went to the principal’s office to learn about Ethan and his family. Mrs. Susan’s office smelled of old books and fresh coffee. The principal sat at a large oak desk, sorting papers, and looked up as Emily knocked.
“Mrs. Emily, come in, sit down. Something wrong?” she asked, smiling warmly.
“Thank you, Mrs. Susan. I need advice,” Emily began, sitting. “I have a new student, Ethan Thompson. I’d like to know more about him, how he joined us, his family.”
Mrs. Susan leaned back, frowning thoughtfully.
“Ethan? Yes, a tough case, tragic story. His mother passed away six years ago, incurable illness. So young, such a shame. His father, Daniel Thompson, is a well-known hematologist, works at a private clinic, always traveling, busy man. Sadly, he doesn’t have much time for his son.”
“So he’s well-off?” Emily asked, keeping her tone casual.
“Yes, quite. Private clinic, good fees, they’re not struggling. But money doesn’t replace parental care.”
“I know Ethan has a nanny, said to be good, but still… Can you tell me more about her?” Emily pressed, feeling anxious.
Mrs. Susan shrugged.
“Sarah… Well, what’s to say? Young, attractive, educated, used to be a nurse but was fired over some scandal. Saw her a couple times when she brought Ethan’s papers. Nothing special. Why the interest?”
“Just trying to understand Ethan, help him adjust,” Emily said vaguely.
“That’s commendable. Ethan needs support now more than ever. He’s complex, withdrawn, especially since his mother’s death. His father tries, but you know how it is…”
Emily nodded, realizing the situation was more complicated than she thought.
“Did Ethan mention anything about his family during his enrollment interview?” she probed.
Mrs. Susan shook her head.
“No, nothing specific. Kids often hide their problems, scared or shy. You have to be observant to see what’s in their hearts.”
The talk only deepened her suspicions.

Daniel Thompson, a busy doctor, and her husband James, kissing a young nanny in a parking lot. Too many coincidences.
“Thank you,” Emily said, standing.
“Anytime. Always happy to help,” Mrs. Susan replied, watching her go.

Outside the office, Emily leaned against the wall, processing. So many questions, so few answers. She needed to confront James.

The walk home felt endless. She barely noticed her surroundings. At her door, she heard muffled voices—James’s, unmistakable, and Margaret’s. Emily froze, key in the lock.
“Don’t deny it, James, I know everything,” Margaret’s voice was sharp, laced with anger. “Sarah, that floozy, how could you?”
“Mom, calm down, you’ve got it wrong,” James defended. “It’s a misunderstanding.”
“Misunderstanding?” Margaret exploded. “You’re kissing another woman in plain sight, and it’s a misunderstanding? Do you realize what you’re doing? Emily loves you.”
Emily’s throat tightened with tears.

She’d always tried to please Margaret, treating her with respect and care. Now, Margaret was clearly worried for her.
“Mom, don’t make a scene,” James said, irritated. “Emily and I have been strangers for a while, just roommates. There’s no point dragging this out.”
“What are you saying?” Margaret cried. “Have you ever tried to understand her? Asked about her life? You’re always at work, and when you’re home, you’re glued to your phone. Emily’s a bright, kind soul. She deserves happiness, not your cheating.”
“So you’re on her side?” James challenged. “Great. Then why are you here? To lecture me?”
“I’m here to make you see your mistake, but it’s clearly pointless. You’re blinded by that girl.”

Emily couldn’t listen anymore. Pain, betrayal, and despair overwhelmed her…