***The Celebration***

Daniel's car pulled into the driveway at seven.

He sat there for a moment. Engine off. Hands still gripping the steering wheel. The house lights glowed warm through the windows. Music played faintly from inside. Voices. Laughter.

His family was having a good time without him.

The thought sat heavy in his chest.

He grabbed his briefcase. Got out. Locked the car. Walked to the front door like he did every night. Like this was normal. Like his ...