Chapter 11

Naomi arrives at her former home and discovers Jeremy in a prolonged, intimate kiss with a younger woman. Furious and humiliated, Naomi confronts them on the porch despite knowing a scene could escalate. Jeremy is startled; the woman remains composed and introduces herself as Veronica.

Jeremy encourages Veronica to leave, and Naomi watches his longing gaze follow Veronica to her car, realizing she has been replaced. Naomi accuses Jeremy of lying about there being no one else. He apologizes weakly and claims he withheld the truth to spare her.

Naomi presses for details, calling the relationship a midlife crisis. Jeremy reveals Veronica is twenty-eight and, more devastatingly, says he is in love with her. He admits Veronica has not met Teddy yet, adding, “Not yet,” implying plans to bring her into their son’s life.

Shaken, Naomi oscillates between anger and a desire to salvage her family for Teddy’s sake. She questions whether the marriage is still worth saving after the betrayal but remembers how good their life seemed before.

As Naomi departs, Jeremy checks if she can get home safely. Naomi resolves that, whatever happens, she will fight for her family. She distrusts Veronica’s calm, challenging demeanor and suspects ulterior motives, vowing to figure out what Veronica wants from Jeremy.