198 I don't owe you any explanations.

The accusation slammed into Victoria like a physical blow. The breath whooshed out of her lungs, leaving her gasping. A sickening punch reverberated in her gut as she faced the raw fury radiating from her son.

"I am the reason?" she repeated. Disbelief morphed into a deep, agonizing ache in her heart. "Silas, how can you even think such a thing? You know how much I love your father."

"Mom, please, you are making me sick," Silas interrupted with disgust. "Just accept it… accept the fact that you cheated on him…"

Victoria's initial shock gave way to a surge of anger, hot and fierce. "What utter nonsense are you spewing?" she roared. The hurt flickered momentarily, replaced by a burning indignation. "I would never, ever betray your father!"