Leon reaches across the table to put a reassuring hand over yours. “I’m sorry,” he says, speaking gently over the sound of dinnertime conversation and soft music. “I know I’ve been gone a lot. More than usual, these past several weeks.”

He leans forward, close enough to bring your hand to his lips. He kisses it, watching your expression the whole time. “I know I haven’t been the most present husband in the world lately. But I’m off this month, so I’m all yours. I promise.”