~Aaron~

I arrived home at exactly 10 p.m. to see Joan curled up on the sofa. My steps slowed as I approached her. Her hair had fallen over her face, hiding it from view.

She was asleep—I could tell from her slow, steady breathing and the quiet stillness around her. A small smile crept onto my face. She’d probably fallen asleep waiting for me. My stubborn girl.

I dropped my briefcase on the floor before crouching in front of the couch. Gently, I brushed her hair ...