An Hour Earlier
Mia emerged from her room, her mother's worried expression meeting her at the threshold. The tension in the air was palpable as they made their way to the living room.
Standing there, in a crisp suit and an air of smug authority, was Henry.
Henry's eyes scanned her, a cruel smile curling on his lips. "Vanessa, my dear," he began, his tone dripping with false affection. "I've come to take you back. It's time to end this charade."
Her mother stepped forward, her voice trembling with restrained anger. "You have no right to be here, Henry. Vanessa doesn't want to see you."
Henry's eyes narrowed, a flash of irritation crossing his face. "Stay out of this. This is between Vanessa and me."
Mia took a deep breath, steadying herself. "What do you want, Henry?"
"I want my wife back," he said, his voice dangerously calm. "You've had your little rebellion, but it's time to return home where you belong."
