Chapter 45
When Carter finally returned home that early evening after his serious conversation with Mikey, a chilling eeriness met him. The house was profoundly quiet, the silence almost oppressive. Yet, a small comfort broke the tension: a covered plate of food sat waiting on the kitchen counter. The rich, savory aroma, still warm, instantly told him it was Sarah's handiwork, freshly prepared not long ago.
A wave of tender relief washed over him. He made his way to their bedroom, his footsteps soft. There, he found Sarah deeply, peacefully asleep, curled up securely around her body pillow. The sight instantly melted away his resolve to confront her. He simply didn't have the heart to shatter that tranquility, deciding instead to postpone their difficult conversation until she woke natur
