CHAPTER TWENTY SIX – COULD IT BE TRUE

Kayla's mind reeled, trapped in a silent scream. A daughter? Lance's daughter? The manicured courtyard dissolved into a blurry mess, the gentle gurgle of the fountain a distorted roar in her ears. Raya's words echoed – "This is Lance's little girl. And she deserves to know her father." Her gaze darted to Maya, the innocent child clutching Raya's hand, oblivious to the storm brewing within Kayla. "I... I need some air," Kayla stammered, her voice barely a whisper. Without waiting for a response, she spun on her heel and escaped the fragrant prison of the garden, Raya's desperate plea hanging heavy in the air. She emerged onto the bustling sidewalk, the cacophony of the city a harsh counterpoint to the tranquil haven she'd just left. Her legs propelled her forward, a desperate need for distance fueling her steps. She didn't know where she was going, only that she needed to put space between herself and the woman and the truth she carried. Finally, Kayla stumbled to a halt, leaning ag