From the end of the road, I wait for Apollo to pick up Celeste for school. It’s early, but I wanted to wait until Ariana was alone to talk to her in person. I texted her over the weekend, and she never responded, not that I could blame her.

Once I see them turn in the opposite direction, I pull out of my spot and drive to Ariana’s house. After I park in her driveway, I go to the door and knock softly. I didn’t even bother dressing for work today. I’m in a T-shirt and gray sweatpants. ...