As the pieces of this horrifying puzzle fall into place, I realize that Cora had access to my life in ways I couldn't have imagined. She knew details about my relationship with Aiden, and my private photos, and even influenced my choices. She had played a significant role in manipulating the course of my life. It's clear that the person I once considered my best friend is the architect of my suffering.

Aiden's touch offers some semblance of comfort as I navigate the car with one hand, my fingers interlocked with his. His gentle circles soothe the turbulence of emotions swirling within me, and I find solace in his presence. It's the only form of reassurance in this chaotic reality.

I can't help but question my own naivety and why I fell victim to Cora's manipulations. How could I be so blind to her deceit? The sense of betrayal and self-blame consumes me. Why did it have to be me? Why did life choose to heap this burden on my shoulders?

The thought of my son, my innocent child, flashes through my mind. He's the one who'll suffer the most from all of this. He'll grow up knowing the truth, and I fear he'll blame me for separating him from his father. The painful image of my own son shouting at me, then walking away with Aiden, knowing the grim truth, carves a path of torment through my soul.

As we pull into the garage, I feel a surge of panic, fearing that Aiden might want to take my son away from me. My voice quivers as I plead with him, "Aiden, you can't take him away from me. I will do anything, just please don't do it."

Aiden's eyes soften as he listens to my plea. He turns to me, his gaze searching mine, and reassures me with a hint of exasperation in his voice. "Do you think I would pull that monstrous act? You carried him for nine months, and no child should ever be taken from their mother based on one mistake, especially one influenced by her best friend. I promise you, I would never let that happen. He deserves to be with his mother."

Aiden's touch is gentle as he wipes away my tears, his thumb brushing away the moisture that has collected on my face and collarbone. I find comfort in his tenderness, feeling the weight of the recent revelations slowly begin to lift from my shoulders.

He lifts my chin, urging me to meet his gaze, his tone now filled with determination. "Look at me," he says, his eyes locking onto mine. "Don't waste your tears on someone like Cora. Be glad that this is finally over, and now you know who's been behind all of this. I know how much Cora meant to you since childhood, and, in a strange way, I considered her my friend too. But I promise you, I will make sure they both face the consequences for all the suffering they've put you through."

Aiden's commitment to bringing Cora and Sebastian to justice is palpable, and his eyes, once warm, now smoulder with a fiery resolve. I can tell that his motivation isn't born from anger directed at me, but rather a strong sense of justice.

As I consider the possibility of Cora's imprisonment, I can't help but feel a twinge of sadness. Despite her betrayal and the pain she's caused, I can't forget the deep friendship we once shared. It feels like a heartbreaking end to something that was once beautiful, even though it's now tainted.

"No, you can't do that," I bleat out.

I can't bear the thought of Cora going to prison, even after her betrayal. She needs help. Aiden looks at me with a furrowed brow, clearly taken aback by my request.

"What do you mean?" he asks, searching for clarity.

I gather my resolve and explain, "Cora. You can't put her in prison. We should send her to a mental institution instead. She's not fit to care for a child, let alone twins. She needs professional help."

Aiden's initial resistance weakens as he considers my proposal. "And Sebastian? What about him?"

My focus is on Cora, and I remain resolute in my decision. "You can do whatever you want with Sebastian."

Aiden takes a moment to think, assessing the options before him. Finally, he relents, albeit with a stern warning, "Fine, but that doesn't mean I'm going to put her in a good institution. She can be in one where she gets the punishment she deserves. She isn't worth any money, and her continued existence is harmful. Don't oppose my decision. Understood?"

I nod vigorously, relieved that he's willing to send Cora to a place where she can receive treatment. It may not be a perfect solution, but it's better than her being imprisoned, and I'm grateful that Aiden is willing to consider this alternative.

As we enter the house, Aiden suggests, "Okay, let's go and relax. No work for us today. Peter already knows I'm not coming in, and he is going to take care of everything."

I can only manage a nod in response. My mind is still reeling from the shocking news of the past hour, and I find it difficult to put my thoughts into words.

Aiden tells me he's going to make a call to inform Peter about the change in plans. He mentions that he doesn't want to waste his time on "two useless people" and would rather focus on his family.

Alone in our room, I change into Aiden's clothes, taking some time to let everything sink in. I sit on the bed, pondering the disturbing truth about Cora's betrayal.

How could I not have any memory of Sebastian? The answer becomes clear: Cora had manipulated me and cunningly kept her involvement hidden for years. The person I trusted most had used my vulnerabilities and secrets against me. I've always turned to Cora, shared my deepest thoughts, and confided in her.

The entire day feels surreal, like a nightmare that I can't wake up from.

++++