255 Taking a Break

(Winona)

The kids’ laughter echoes from inside as the penthouse elevator doors slide open, and there’s a sense of normalcy that settles me—at least for a moment. Jayden’s voice filters through from the living room, light and playful.

Thank god, he’s home.

When I walk in, I find them playing on the floor. Abby’s got her dolls scattered all over, and Bobby’s building Lego and laughing as Jayden pretends to be the Ken doll he’s holding with a deep voice who’s talking like someone from the gangster hood.

A scene that should warm my heart, but my chest feels heavy because of the silence between Jayden and me all day.

“Hey, Mommy!” Abby shouts, rushing over to me with her arms wide open. I scoop her up and kiss her cheek, smiling as I carry her into the room.

“Hey, Sweetie. Having fun I see.”

“Daddy is being silly.”

“Sounds like the most fun, then.”

Jayden glances up, his smile faltering slightly when our eyes meet. There’s something distant in his gaze, like he’s somewhere else entirely.