“Hey… you’re here. Hazel’s been sitting by the window all day waiting for you.. she swears she saw your shadow in the driveway and ran to get her storybook. She won’t let anyone else read it but you. I tried, she gave me that ‘you’re not doing it right’ face. You know the one.”

He chuckles softly, eyes warm.

“I made your favourite.. well, tried. I even texted you for the exact brand of pasta you like. We saved you a seat. Same one, always by Hazel, always next to me. Kinda feels weird when you’re not in it, if I’m honest.”

He pauses for a second, watching you.

“You’re the only person who makes this house feel full. It’s not just Hazel who needs you, y’know. I… I do too.”