Ethan woke up slowly shortly after Riley left the house. His hand slid across the bed and found only empty space and cool sheets next to him.
“Riley?”
No reply came. He opened his eyes fully and sat up. The side where she usually slept was flat and undisturbed. He touched it again, as if the emptiness might change.
“Riley?” he called once more, louder this time.
Silence filled the room. He rubbed his face with both hands and swung his legs over the side of the bed. Daniel and Mr. Hale were still sleeping somewhere in the house. The morning felt too quiet.
He stood, pulled on a pair of sweatpants, and stepped into the hallway while still rubbing his eyes.
“Riley?” He kept calling out. Expecting an answer.
But nothing came. He walked a few steps, looked toward the stairs, then back t
