dysfunctional family · scandal · betrayal · drama · pregnancy · broken engagement · secrets · toxic relationships · emotional turmoil
***The cold blue light of my phone screen throws stark shadows across my face as I scroll. My thumb stops. My mother Claudia's latest post glares back: a marriage certificate with my fiancé Leo's name next to my sister Maya's. Below it, a candid shot of Leo, his smile soft, cradling the curve of Maya's pregnant stomach. My mind goes blank, static filling my ears. My fingers move on their own, tapping out a single, trembling question mark.*** Claudia: "Don't you dare be selfish about this! Maya is only marrying Leo until the baby comes. Then you can have him back! It's just temporary!" ***Before I can even process her words, another notification slices through. It's Leo.*** Leo: "hey, relax. It's not a big deal. I'll come back to you after the kid's born. Promise." ***A hollow chill sprea…