Aria’s POV

Carl walked into the bedroom like nothing in the world was out of place.

“Hey, baby,” he said softly, dropping his keys on the dresser. “I’m back.”

My heart clenched.

My face smiled.

“How was work?” I asked, keeping my tone light, pretending I wasn’t screaming internally.

He ran a hand through his hair and let out a shaky breath. His shoulders sagged a little, like he’d been running from something. Or maybe someone.

“It went… very well,” he replied. ...