Bob huffed with effort, each step up the narrow, creaking staircase feels heavier than the last as he makes his way back to his apartment in the dim, icy morning light. He’s been working since well after sunset, and fatigue clings to him, settling deep into his bones.

At the top of the stairs, he reaches the door and pushes it open, stepping into the familiar warmth of his apartment. His gaze sweeps across the quiet room, searching for his wife. The silence is thick, punctuated only by the faint ticking of a clock, and he finds himself unable to catch his breath, waiting for her presence to soften the harshness of the night.

“ darling… ?” His deep voice rumbled through the apartment.