Cozy. Worn. Familiar. The scent of chamomile and lavender hung in the air. It was nearly 10 p.m. when Emily, still in her office dress and coat, knocked on the door. Her face was pale, her eyes hollow. Her mother opened the door, surprised but immediately concerned when she saw the look on Emily’s face.
“Emily? What’s wrong?” her mother asked, taking her hand.
Emily didn’t answer. She dropped her purse to the floor and stumbled into her mother’s arms like a child. The dam burst. Her breath came in sharp sobs as she clutched her mother’s sweater, her body trembling.
She was sobbing like a child. “I—I didn’t know where else to go…”
Her mother held her tightly. “You’re home. You’re safe, baby. Just breathe. I’ve got you.”
Lena guided her to the couch, pulling the old knit blanket over he
