Chapter 3 - The Departure
Payton looked down at the $120 million check, then rested her hand subtly over her lower abdomen, where her quadruplets were quietly developing. Because of her unique genetic makeup, her four children were not only safe—they carried the cure to Spencer's lethal inheritance.
"I will take the money," Payton said, her voice ringing with absolute certainty. "And I will leave tonight."
"Where will you go?" Eleanor asked.
"Somewhere no one in Chicago will ever find me," Payton replied.
Two hours later, Payton returned to the Davis mansion for the last time. She packed three suitcases with her personal belongings, ignoring the diamond jewelry, designer dresses, and luxury cars Spencer had bought her over six years of marriage. She took only her own documents, her grandmother's silver locket, and the four pink pregnancy tests tucked safely in her handbag.
As she stepped out onto the driveway, Spencer’s sports car pulled up. He stepped out, looking flushed and wearing an expensive new watch—no doubt a gift from Chloe.
"Payton?" Spencer stopped, looking at her luggage in confusion. "My mother said you agreed to the settlement. Is it true?"
"It’s signed, Spencer," Payton said calmly, holding her head high. "The divorce papers are on your desk."
A sudden flash of guilt crossed Spencer’s handsome face. He took a step toward her. "Payton, listen... I’m sorry it had to end like this. But Chloe is giving me a family. You understand, don't you? A man needs an heir."
May you like
Payton looked at him—the man she had loved for six years, who was walking blindly into a trap set by his mistress while throwing away his true salvation.
"I hope those twins give you everything you deserve, Spencer," she said softly, stepping into a waiting black sedan. "Goodbye."
