A week passed after Daniel and Marian talked about Elise’s request.
A full week.
Daniel didn’t rush it.
He thought about it—again and again—turning it over in his mind during quiet mornings, long drives, and sleepless nights. Part of him wanted to ignore it completely. To leave the past where it belonged.
But another part of him knew…
If he didn’t go, it would linger.
Unanswered.
Unfinished.
So a week later—
Daniel found himself standing outside the correctional facility.
The tall gates.
The cold, gray walls.
It all felt heavier now that he had chosen to be there.
He took a deep breath before stepping forward.
⸻
The process inside was slow.
Security checks.
Paperwork.
Waiting.
Too much waiting.
By the time he was finally led into the visiting area, Daniel felt the weigh
