Chapter 1: Gary’s Evening

Gary sat alone in the living room, the soft glow of the television flickering across his face. It was late enough that the house felt still, but not so late that he expected anything unusual. He leaned back into the sofa, half‑watching the news, half‑letting his mind drift. His thoughts wandered about everything. He loved his wife more than himself, his children, and he also loved his mistress, whom he had left a long time ago precisely for his wife. After a long time, he was finally able to gather his feelings and devote himself only to his family. His deep thoughts were interrupted by a noise behind him.

The front door clicked open.

Gloria stepped inside, her hair slightly wind‑tossed from the night air, her work bag hanging from one shoulder. She closed the door quietly, out of habit — Mary and Clara were already asleep upstairs.

“You’re still awake,” she said, her voice warm but tired.

“Couldn’t sleep yet,” Gary replied. “How was work?”

“The usual,” she sighed, slipping off her shoes. “Long day. Too many people. Not enough patience.”

He smiled softly. “You made it through.”

She walked over, kissed his cheek, and let her hand rest on his shoulder for a moment. “The girls went down easy?”

“Mary fell asleep reading again. Clara was out before her head hit the pillow.”

Gloria laughed under her breath. “Good. They needed it.”