Chapter2 

It was Ashley’s birthday and she arrived in LA at 11 PM. Her phone buzzed with messages of blessing–some even from her colleagues. However, she got nothing from her husband. The smile faded from her lips. 

It was almost dawn when she arrived at the villa. Maria, the housekeeper, gasped.“Mrs. Sterling, you… you’re back?” 

“Where are Chase and Sam?” 

Mr. Sterling hasn’t come home yet. Sam’s in his room.” 

Ashley gave Maria hér bags and went upstairs. Sam was sitting at his desk, doing something so intently that he didn’t notice her coming in. 

“Sammy?” 

He turned, his face lighting up.“Mommy!” Then, he kept doing his own thing. Ashley scooped him into a hug, but he pushed her away gently.“Mommy, I’m busy.” Three months apart felt like a lifetime. Ashley missed her son, wanting to embrace him with kisses, to talk, to reconnect. But he was so focused. 

“Sammy, are you making a seashell necklace?” 

“Yeah!” He perked up.“It’s for Aunt Tanya’s birthday in five days! Daddy and I polished all the shells ourselves. Aren’t they pretty?” 

Ashley’s throat tightened. Before she could speak, Sam continued with his back to her, “Daddy got Aunt Tanya other presents too. Tomorrow…” 

11 

A crushing weight settled on Ashley’s chest. She couldn’t hold back the tears anymore.“Sammy… do you remember my birthday?” 

“Huh? What?” Sam glanced at her, then turned back, grumbling, “Mommy, don’t talk to me. messing up the beads!”