CHAPTER 67 UNEXPECTED VISITOR

The crisp autumn air carried the scent of fallen leaves as Jenna hurried up the driveway, her arms laden with groceries. The past few months had seen a marked improvement in the Thompson family's work-life balance, and Jenna was looking forward to a cozy weekend at home with Ryan and Lily. As she approached the front door, she noticed an unfamiliar car parked on the street. Curiosity piqued, she fumbled for her keys, wondering if Ryan had invited someone over without mentioning it. The moment she stepped inside, she knew something was off. The tension in the air was palpable, and Ryan's voice, uncharacteristically strained, drifted from the living room. "I just don't think this is a good time," he was saying as Jenna rounded the corner. She stopped short at the sight before her. Ryan stood with his arms crossed, his posture defensive. Across from him, perched on the edge of the sofa, was a woman Jenna had never seen before. She was strikingly beautiful, with long dark hair and eyes