He sat with his wife’s photo, waiting for a son who had already boarded without him

sharp, impatient rap. I froze. Adrian heard it.

— Expecting someone?

— No.

Another knock. Harder this time. My pulse steadied. Not fear. But something colder. Controlled.

— I should call you back, — I murmured.

— Be careful, — he said softly.

When I opened the door, I wasn’t surprised. Standing there, face flushed with desperation, jaw tight with anger, continue reading …