“You want the truth? Fine.” And I revealed what Jason’s father had once told me in confidence: Jason isn’t his biological son. Sandra had had an affair with her brother-in-law—Uncle Rob. Jason’s dad had found out through a DNA test, but kept it quiet to protect his son. The yard went completely still. Sandra turned pale. Jason looked like the ground had crumbled beneath him. He couldn’t deny it. The truth was too real. We left without a word. No goodbyes. No drama. Just silence. Two days later, Jason handed me an envelope. He had mailed a new DNA test—on his terms. And a note inside read,
Keep this. You’ll need it when your next lie blows up.” Sandra hasn’t contacted us since. But Uncle Rob did. He asked if we could talk. The truth hurt. But silence was worse. I’m done shrinking. I’m done smiling through insults. Ava’s next birthday will be filled with real love, not “gifts” wrapped in poison.