That’s When Evan’s Mother Arrived

Linda had been inside helping with food.

She came outside after hearing people shouting.

“What is going on?”

Then she saw Madison.

And stopped.

Claire noticed.

Again.

Not confusion.

Recognition.

Claire slowly turned toward Linda.

“You know her.”

Linda looked at Evan.

That was enough.

Claire whispered:

“You’ve met her.”

Linda immediately said:

“Claire, let’s not do this here.”

Claire’s expression changed completely.

“You’ve MET her?”

Madison folded her arms.

Evan stared at the ground.

Claire looked around at them.

“How many people knew?”

Linda Had Known for Three Months

Eventually Linda admitted it.

Evan had told her about Madison after learning Madison was pregnant.

Claire could barely process the words.

“You knew your son got another woman pregnant?”

Linda answered:

“I told him he needed to handle it.”

Claire stared at her.

“Handle it?”

Linda lowered her voice.

“I was trying to protect you during your pregnancy.”

Claire stepped closer.

“By letting me sleep next to him every night without knowing?”

Linda answered:

“Stress isn’t good for the baby.”

Claire looked at her in disbelief.

“Neither is finding out at my baby shower.”