But even so, I was certain that the little prince from my storybooks looked exactly like the boy standing in front of me.
The bride thing was a joke. I was the only one who took it seriously.
From that day on, I became Phil's little shadow.
Elementary school, middle school, high school—we were never apart.
Until a year ago, when Phil showed up out of nowhere.
"Irene, let's be together."
Back then, I thought all those years of devotion had finally won him over. I threw myself into being his girlfriend, heart wide open.
Now I knew the truth: Phil Cox was with me for one reason. He needed a child.
To spare Claire the pain of carrying one, I became the perfect baby machine.
How absurd.
I sat on the living room sofa in silence, torturing myself with every sound that came from the bedroom.
I don't know how long it went on before the two of them finally walked out.
The instant Phil saw me, a flicker of panic crossed his face.
"Ir—Irene? When did you—how long have you been back? Why didn't you say something? I would've come and picked you up!"
I didn't answer. My gaze stayed fixed on Claire's face.
Phil rushed to explain.
"I drank too much last night, and you weren't home."