I married a prisoner for money while he was serving a twelve-year sentence — but after his conviction was overturned, he came to my apartment with a black box and said, “Now it’s my turn to be honest.”

I could barely believe what I was hearing.

“You arranged this?”

“I influenced her decision.”

I shook my head.

“Julian, your mother offered me money because I was struggling to raise Toby.” Birthdayparty planning

“I know.”

“You knew I was desperate?”

His expression softened.

“Yes.”

I felt tears gathering.

“For three years, I thought everything between us happened naturally.”

“The feelings did, Nora.”

“Did they?”

He looked hurt.

“Every letter I wrote was real. Every conversation mattered to me. I love you.”

I crossed my arms.

“Then why keep this