Chapter 52

Gloria stared at Vanessa, unable to look away from her swollen belly. This image confirmed all the suspicions she had harbored for months—the bitter doubts that refused to leave her in peace. Vanessa, standing before her, looked exhausted, but she remained silent, meeting Gloria’s gaze with something close to defiance. Gloria hesitated for a moment, trying to grasp the purpose of this unexpected visit.

— "Come in, Vanessa," she finally said, trying to mask her unease. "Tell me what brings you here."

Without a word, Vanessa followed her into the grand living room, where Gloria gestured for her to sit. She disappeared briefly into the kitchen to prepare a glass of water. Left alone in the vast, luxurious space she was seeing for the first time, Vanessa let her gaze wander over the lavish walls and furniture. A pang of resentment tightened her chest.