had been having an affair with Melissa for a year, and Liam had bonded with her in Paula’s absence. The betrayal cut even deeper when Liam admitted he called Melissa “Mom” because she was there for him in ways Paula hadn’t been.

Shattered, Paula filed for divorce. Liam chose to live with his father and Melissa, leaving Paula alone with the realization that her pursuit of success had come at the cost of her family. She gave up the promotion, accepted a lower role with no travel, and started therapy in an effort to rebuild her relationship with her son. Though unsure of what the future holds, she now knows presence is more powerful than any professional achievement—and she’s willing to do whatever it takes to earn her son’s love back.