I locked my wife in the pantry under the stairs

“I want to build something without locks.”

Emily’s eyes fill, but she does not cry.

Not then.

She only nods.

When I leave, I pass a small framed note near the door. It is written in Emily’s handwriting.

Your mother’s name must not become my child’s cage.

Under it, another line has been added.

Neither must your father’s shame.

I stand there for a long time.continue reading …