ELARA I wrapped up work earlier than usual today, but the thought of going home to an empty house and being left alone with my thoughts didn’t sit well with me. I couldn’t bear the quietness, the worries of my own mind. So, instead of heading home, I busied myself with tasks that weren’t even mine, just to pass the time. That was why I ended up staying so late. Honestly, a part of me was waiting for Dave to call, to check in and ask why I was taking so long. But my phone remained silent. No missed calls. No messages. I told myself he was probably caught up at work too. On my way home, I stopped at the grocery store. I figured cooking would keep me occupied until Dave got back. Maybe some fresh veggies would do the trick. Standing in front of two crates of apples, I found myself lost in

