Abigail stepped inside, breathing in the smell of cake and warm frosting, feeling a moment of relief that her early arrival had led her straight into family joy rather than an empty house. Sophie spotted her from across the room and waved excitedly, while Natalie hurried over to hug her, still wearing an apron dusted with flour and sugar. Everything looked safe, familiar, and utterly normal, which made what followed feel even more unreal.
Abigail’s phone vibrated in her coat pocket. She expected a text about work or a reminder from the airline. Instead she saw Evan’s name flashing across the screen. She answered with a smile, but his voice came through without greeting, low and tight, carrying an edge she had never heard before.
“Where are you right now, Abigail,” he asked, each word measured as though he were afraid to waste breath.
“I am at Natalie’s house,” she replied, glancing toward the living room where children were tearing wrapping paper from presents. “Sophie is here too. Why are you asking like that.”