CHAPTER XIII: THE UNINVITED GUEST

THEY finally took a vacation that weekend. Despite their son's displeasure with the plan, they managed to persuade him to come. Elena tried to forget about everything that day in order to concentrate on their son. Maybe she could act as if everything was fine for the three of them. Perhaps she could pretend that her husband was not cheating on her and that everything was as it used to be.

Yes, she was aware that she was deluding herself. But if it was the only way to enjoy their family trip and bond with Peter, she'd gladly play a fool for the entire weekend.

They stayed at their Northern Cebu resthouse, which overlooked a white sand beach and crystal clear waters. It looked like a paradise—beautiful, calm, and inviting! It was the ideal place for them to unwind and reflect on everything that had happened in their lives.

"Son!" she said while he was swimming on the beach. "I brought you some snacks!"

"Later!"

She chose not to force him because she was content to see him have fun like