Chapter 43

Naomi reels after learning Veronica is pregnant with Jeremy’s child. She reasons the pregnancy was unplanned, noting Lola’s message asking what Veronica will do. Naomi fears this development will bind Jeremy to Veronica and ruin any chance of buying Veronica off.

To gauge what Jeremy knows, Naomi combs through their texts on Veronica’s phone but finds no mention of a pregnancy. When Jeremy messages asking to FaceTime Teddy, Naomi uses the opportunity to probe, hinting at a “situation.” Jeremy’s confused reply confirms he is unaware of the pregnancy.

Continuing the ruse, Naomi suggests reconsidering custody, prompting Jeremy to defend his aggressive stance and disparage Naomi. His responses, and a reference to prior conversations, convince Naomi that Veronica has been urging the harsh custody strategy to avoid child support and marginalize Teddy.

Concluding that financial persuasion will not work now that a baby is involved, Naomi’s thoughts darken. She rejects murder but fixates on destroying what she believes draws Jeremy to Veronica: her beauty. Naomi imagines using scissors to scar Veronica’s face so Jeremy will no longer want her.

Resolved to escalate, Naomi picks up the scissors and approaches the cellar where Veronica is restrained, intent on disfiguring her to end the threat to her family.