The atmosphere in the room shifted, the tension slowly giving way to confusion that settled over Vivien. Her confident smirk faltered, replaced by a flicker of uncertainty. Caleb’s gaze bounced between Dr. Evans and his mother, silently seeking clarity in the heavy silence.
Dr. Evans spoke again, calm and measured. “The genetic test confirms that Luna is indeed Caleb’s daughter. However, the results also uncovered a surprising anomaly in the Monroe family’s genetic markers. There’s a recessive gene that has existed for generations but has only manifested now.”
Vivien’s expression shifted from superiority to disbelief. “What does that mean?” she asked, her voice tight and fragile.
“It means,” Dr. Evans explained, “that Luna carries a rare genetic trait that skips generations and appears only under specific conditions. This trait is tied to a particular lineage within your family. It’s uncommon, and scientifically, it’s quite fascinating.”
Caleb leaned in, curiosity mingling with concern. “But how could this have gone unnoticed?”
Dr. Evans offered a gentle shrug. “Family genetics are often complex. Some traits remain hidden until a unique combination of DNA brings them to light. Previous records or tests may simply have never highlighted it because it never manifested.”
Vivien’s once-sharp eyes softened as she processed the revelation. Her scheme to isolate me had backfired, unintentionally exposing a hidden truth about her own ancestry.
I felt a quiet satisfaction but resisted the urge to gloat. Turning to Caleb, I said, “See, Caleb? Luna is every bit a Monroe, through and through.”
Caleb reached for Luna’s tiny hand, his eyes glistening with emotion. “She’s perfect,” he whispered, his voice thick with affection.
Vivien remained silent, an internal struggle crossing her features. Slowly, she nodded, her former certainty giving way. “I… I didn’t know,” she admitted softly.
But the story was far from over…
