In the days that followed, it felt like we had really returned to our old routine. He left early and came home late, while I stayed home cooking for him.
However, the nighttime awakenings reminded me that this was merely an illusion of peace.
One night, Leo stayed over.
After we settled into bed, he eagerly began to undress me. It was our first intimate moment since the baby was born, and I fought against my nausea, trying to please him.
Sensing that he was in a good mood, I made my request. "Can I see the baby?"
"No, Shirley. Don't think about him. The Campbell family is keeping a close watch on him right now."
I didn't push the issue further. After he left, I vomited violently.
In the middle of the night, at just the right moment, I took out a hidden razor blade and cut my wrist.
