Denise finally crumbled, her facade of perfection shattering to pieces.

“I suffered too—you have no idea what it was like to be a mother that young!” she cried out.

Joanna finally rose from her seat, her movements graceful and calm, carrying a quiet strength that felt more powerful than any outburst.

“I do know what it was like to be young, Denise, and I know exactly what it was like to be scared,” Joanna said, her voice clear and steady.

“I know, because while you were out living your life, I was learning how to sleep sitting up in a chair with your son in my arms, so I wouldn’t drop him when I dozed off.”

Simon reached out and took Joanna’s hand, anchoring himself to her.

“I don’t want your money if it’s built on a mountain of lies,” Simon said, looking directly at Denise.