My father-in-law slapped me at my baby shower and called me “defective.” He had no idea I was 11 weeks pregnant. The room fell silent. Phones started recording. Hours later, I was in the ER. By morning, my husband had to choose—his father or his child.

childish games,” a voice cut through the room.

The laughter stopped instantly.

Frank stood in the center of the room, commanding attention without effort.

Ethan stiffened beside me, his smile disappearing.

“I have something to say,” Frank announced.

He held a small, neatly wrapped gift bag, but his eyes weren’t on Ethan.

They were locked on me.

Chapter 2:continue reading …