I open the door to my apartment, taking great care not to draw attention. I know it's impossible for him not to notice my presence, but I cling to the hope that he's not in the living room, but rather in his room playing, giving me time to run to mine and change clothes.
I close the door cautiously, and as I turn to walk toward the living room, I see him running toward me.
"Mommy!" he shouts, opening his arms to me. I have no choice but to smile at him, to match his excitement at seeing me, and bending down slightly, I gather him in my arms, showering him with kisses. "Where did you go when I woke up?" he rushes to ask, making it clear that his fairy godmother must have told him I left very early. "And why are you dressed like that?"
His questions, tinged with suspicion, draw a nervous
