In the car:

“Dad,” Joe said suddenly, breaking the silence. “Did something happen between you and Mom?”

Jacob turned to him, startled by the question.

Did Shelly tell him? he wondered. No... she wouldn’t. She’d never humiliate me in front of Joe—not like that.

Jacob forced a small smile. “No, son. Nothing serious.”

“Then why did she sleep in my room last night?” Joe asked, his tone sharper now.

“It was just a small misunderstanding,” Jacob said quickly. “Nothing ...