Chapter 3: Broken Vows
Diane's POV
The journey back from Joan's seemed to go on forever. I was getting closer to a truth I didn't want to face with every mile. I held onto the steering wheel tightly, struggling to process the realization that Liam had betrayed me. How was he able to do this? And of all people, with Sophie?
Sophie's car was parked on the street as I turned into our driveway. My stomach churned. She was here, of course. When the cat's away, why waste time?
Taking a deep breath, I prepared myself. My chest felt heavy as lead with the weight of what I was about to face. But I had to approach this with caution. I was unable to let my feelings overcome me. Not quite yet.
I quietly entered the house. Laughter echoed from the living room, abruptly ending as the door clicked shut behind me. There was a minute of anxious movement before Liam came into the hallway, his shirt hurriedly buttoned.
"Diane! You are home early. "I thought you were staying at Joan's for a few more days," he said, his voice straining with false casualness. I forced a smile, hoping it didn't appear as phony as it felt. "I missed you," I said deceitfully. "Thought I'd surprise you."
Sophie entered into the living room with her cheeks flushed. "Di! I simply came by to borrow a book. You know how Liam usually gives the best recommendations."
The clear lie lingered in the air between us. I almost laughed at the silliness of the situation. Instead, I nodded to preserve my facade. "Of course." Find anything good?"
Sophie struggled for words, evidently taken aback by my seeming unawareness. "I, uh....I was just leaving, honestly. "There is a lot to do today."