When I woke up the next morning, Julian was sitting at the dining table.
The 5-year plan was spread out in front of him.
Beside it were the seven payment records.
He hadn't slept all night.
His eyes were filled with bloodshot veins.
I walked over to pour myself some water.
He suddenly spoke.
"I really used to think you would never leave."
My movements paused for a moment.
Julian lowered his head and looked at the papers on the table.
"You were always planning for the future. Trips, savings… even something as small as my toothache, you would schedule my follow-up appointment 6 months in advance."
He let out a soft laugh.
"I always thought that as long as I was still part of your plans, there wouldn't be a problem."
He turned over one of the payment receipts.
On the back was a
