The morning was quiet, too quiet. Ann sat in the small living room, the baby sleeping peacefully beside her. Outside, the city moved on, fast and loud, but inside her little home, time seemed to move slower. Her mind was full. Her heart was heavy. Then came a soft knock on the door. Her chest tightened. She had a feeling she knew who it was. Slowly, she stood up, walked to the door, and opened it. Richard stood there. He looked tired. Not just physically, but emotionally. Like he had been carrying something too heavy for too long. Ann didn’t say a word. She stepped aside and let him in. “I won’t stay long,” Richard said quietly. “But there’s something you need to know. Something important.” Ann folded her arms and leaned against the wall. “I’m listening.” Richard looked at her…his eyes ser
