---- Chapter 207 "He's busy,' | began, but then my phone buzzed. Antonio had replied: "Yes, | am. See you at home." | hugged Ivan tightly. "No matter how busy he is, he'll be home to celebrate your birthday." Ivan jumped up and down, ecstatic. It was the first birthday in six years that Antonio had agreed to spend with him. That evening, | prepared a special dinner. Ivan finished his homework early, anticipation radiating from him. Hours passed.

| texted Antonio repeatedly, but as always, there was no response. ---- Chapter 208 Chapter 208 Ivan, sensing my hesitation, asked cautiously, "Mom, is Dad really busy with work?" Unable to lie, | crouched in front of him. "I'll always be here for you, and I'll always love you." Ivan asked no more questions. Picking up the cake, he said, "Mom, let's make a wish and eat the cake. We don't need to wait for Dad." | lit the candles and took a photo.

Follow new episodes on the CrushnovelS.Com

As | was about to post it on Facebook, | saw Molly's update: "A romantic evening with my love." The accompanying photo showed a table laden with food from a fancy restaurant. Although their faces weren't visible, | noticed a wedding ring on the hand in the top right corner. It was the ring | had chosen for Antonio when ---- Chapter 208 we married. He always wore it on the pinky finger of his left hand, the finger that signified being single. The irony was crushing.

On lvan's sixth birthday, Antonio was enjoying a candlelit dinner with his mistress. The pain and anger I'd been carrying suddenly dissolved into a quiet peace. | liked Molly's post and put my phone down. "Happy birthday, Ivan." | sang, and in the candlelight, lvan closed his eyes and made a wish. "My birthday wish is to be with Mom forever." Tears streamed down my face, my hand flying to my mouth to stifle a sob. The urge to leave intensified. "I'll always be with you," | said, holding Ivan