In the accompanying photo, Damien's face was expressionless, making it impossible to guess his thoughts.

He looked as if he hadn't recovered from my disappearance.

Alex had already gotten the takeout. When the door slammed, I switched back to the TV channel we'd been watching.

As I ate, I looked at Alex. He was munching on his pizza. It was as if just being with me, even this small thing could make him happy.

I nibbled on another piece of pizza and asked Alex, ...