Aiden returned home toward the evening, his steps heavy and his mind still troubled. He hadn’t planned on leaving, but no matter how long he waited, Jesse and Mrs. Hartmann never came back. Thinking Jesse might need some space, he eventually decided to leave.

Standing at his door after stepping out of the car, Aiden pulled out his phone and sent Jesse a message:

"I’m home."

He waited yet the message wasn't viewed or replied. With a deep breath, he finally input his passcode.

...