10: Shattered Realities

In the sanctuary of her room at the Everett estate, Lily grappled with the overwhelming revelation of her twin pregnancy. The room, once a symbol of her new life, now felt like a prison, echoing with the doctor's parting words: "Twins will require more care. Regular check-ups are essential." Her mind wandered back to the Everett family's manipulations. It was as if she was nothing more than a chess piece in their grand scheme, her own desires and feelings irrelevant. Her marriage to Michael had been a calculated move, and now this pregnancy was just another cog in their elaborate machine. The sunlight streaming through the window felt mocking, illuminating a world that seemed disconnected from her reality. Her phone's ring broke her reverie – it was her mother, her voice laced with urgency. "Lily, come home quickly. Your father is gravely ill." Lily's heart lurched. Despite everything, he was still her father. Memories flooded her mind – the days he had held her high on his sh