15. Not Cinderella

"Mom!" Noah ran towards me with excitement. "Yay! I got picked up in the afternoon."

I kissed my son's forehead and said, "Say hi to Mr. Rey!"

"Uncle Rey!" Mr. Rey corrected.

"But it doesn't feel right to call you Uncle! It's too friendly," I objected.

"Well, what should he call me then? Dad?" teased Mr. Rey with a laugh.

"Please, not that, Uncle! I already have my own Dad. He is working overseas," Noah quickly replied.

Mr. Rey and I fell silent, exchanging glances. I lowered my head, caught in my lie to Noah.

"Noah, today you'll be at Uncle's house, okay? Mom is going to a party at the hotel."

"Working again?" Noah asked disappointedly.

"Yes, something like that. Noah, you'll have fun at Uncle's house. There are lots of toys there!"

Mr. Rey continued to assure my son until Noah gave in. He was happy because he was promised lots of toys.

However, on the way, I was shocked to the core when Mr. Rey brought me to a beauty salon. "Sir, why are we here?"

"You're coming to the party tonight