Rain
I parked the car in the driveway, and for the first time in three days, the crushing weight on my chest loosened. I felt whole.
We stepped inside, and the house was as silent as a graveyard. The only sound was the hum of the refrigerator, the AC, and our breathing.
"Where are the rest?" Debbie whispered.
"They are probably asleep," I said softly, even though my voice was still a bit scratchy.
She looked at me, her eyes tired but kind. "I need to get some sleep too, Rain. I have to be at work tomorrow."
I nodded. Although I didn't want her to go, I couldn't be selfish. Not after today. She had already sacrificed her sleep to come with me here.
I leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead. "Goodnight, Debbie."
Then I turned to start walking toward my bedroom, feeling
