Maria:
Daniel doesn’t say much when we get to mine.
He slows the car, pulls up like he’s done this a hundred times, even though he hasn’t. The engine stays on for a second longer than necessary. I notice that before I realize I’m noticing it. The low rumble vibrates through the seat, mixing with the distant hum of city traffic.
“Get some rest,” he says.
I nod. “You too.”
It feels like there should be something else. Not big. Just… something. But he’s already looking ahead again, like he’s moved on, like whatever we just shared back there has been filed away neatly in his head.
Of course it has.
I step out and close the door. The sound lands a little harder than I expect, echoing slightly in the quiet street. I don’t look back. I don’t give myself time to.
—
I’m halfway up the stai
