---- They lunged at each other, fists flying. Emma tried to break them apart, but in the chaos, Matthew's kick landed squarely in her abdomen. Blood soaked her dress almost instantly. Hospital staff rushed her into emergency surgery. Her life was saved, but the baby didn't make it. Her uterus had been severely ruptured and had to be removed. She had lost the ability to ever become a mother. Matthew was sentenced to five years in prison for aggravated assault. Emma's boyfriend vanished the moment he learned she could never have children. Rumor had it she eventually married a construction worker. My twins were born right on schedule-a boy anda girl, the perfect pair. David was over the moon. He immediately bought a private island in the Caliben to celebrate. ---- Time flew by, and our children grew up healthy and happy. One quiet Sunday afternoon, I walked hand in hand with our daughter while David held our son's hand. The four of us strolled down Alderbrook Avenue, taking in the weekend sun. Suddenly, our son pointed at a nearby vendor's stall. " Mom, I want that toy!" I looked closer. It was a cheap knockoff of Mickey Mouse, its fabric worn and dusty. "Steve, how about we go to Toy Haven and get the real one?" I smiled. The vendor held up the dust-covered plush toy. "This is the real deal. There's no need to waste your money on brands." Then he looked up. Our eyes met. His face stiffened with panic, and he quickly looked away. "Never mind. Forget it. You should just go to ---- the store." It was him-Matthew. Matthew now looked completely worn down. His hair was greasy and unkempt, and deep lines were carved into his face. It was as if he had aged decades overnight. I pretended not to recognize him and walked on with the kids. David glanced back over his shoulder. "That homeless guy keeps staring at us. He's probably just stunned by how perfect we look." I laughed. "Darling, when are you going to get help for that raging narcissism?" The sun poured gently over us, and our kids' laughter echoed along the street. Life was good-perfect, even-as if every piece had finally fallen into place. Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!