A Façade for the Child's Sake

Elara's POV

The bright spring sun illuminated the school's playground as families gathered for the annual parent-child day. Laughter and excited chatter filled the air. I stood a few feet away from Damien and Cora, watching them pose for a photo with Cora's winning trophy.

"Say cheese!" Ms. Ashton called out cheerfully.

Cora beamed, her small hand clutching her father's larger one. The flash went off, capturing a perfect family moment. Except we weren't really a family anymore. Just three people playing pretend for a day.

"Mrs. Thorne," Clara Hayes appeared beside me, her voice honey-sweet, "would you like to join them for the next photo?"

"Oh, I'm fine here," I replied politely.

Clara tilted her head. "I'm sure Cora would want her mother in the picture too."

Before I could respond, Clara called out, "Cora, sweetie! Don't you want your mom in the photo?"

Cora looked up, momentarily confused, then nodded. "Oh, yeah. Come on, Mom!"