I walked through the gate and our security man greeted me with a smile.
“Hello, Tee.”
His voice carried the same warmth it always did, but today, it felt like a weight pressing against my chest. I forced a small smile and waved weakly.
“Hi, Mr. John.”
He nodded, still smiling, and I could feel his eyes linger as I walked toward the house. Maybe I looked tired. Perhaps he saw the redness around my eyes, the way my steps dragged like I was carrying something heavier than my bag.
The moment I opened the door, the smell of fried rice hit my nose. It was warm and familiar, the kind of smell that usually made me smile, but right now it just reminded me how empty I felt inside.
My mum walked out of the kitchen holding a tray of food. Her hair was tied up, and her face softened the moment sh
