Breakfast Plate
Rain still fell, steady and grey. The kitchen echoed with soft clinks. I slid scrambled eggs and toast onto Lily’s cartoon plate. Poured milk. "Mommy," Lily rubbed her eyes, yawning, climbing her stool, legs swinging. "Where’s Daddy? Did he work late again?" "Mmhm," I cut the eggs, my voice unnaturally calm. "Daddy’s busy." Lily clumsily speared a piece of egg, stuffing it in, cheeks bulging. "Will he take me to preschool today? He promised." I met her bright, hopeful eyes. Pure innocence. I reached over, wiping yolk from her chin. "Daddy… might not make it. Mommy take you, okay?" Lily’s lower lip quivered, disappointment flashing, but she nodded. "Okay. Tell Daddy he owes me!" "Okay," I choked out, throat thick.
The Road to the Hotel
After dropping Lily off, I fled the vibrant preschool chaos. Started the car. Wipers began their monotonous sweep. Fingers ice-cold on the wheel. The thought wasn't a thought anymore; it was a compulsion. I had to see it. The place marked by the blue pin. Mark’s "client meeting" destination. I needed the reality—to shatter or confirm the icy dread in my chest. Merging into slow traffic, I didn't need GPS. The hotel’s name and rough location were burned into my brain. A dark beacon drawing me in. I realized this route felt familiar… aligned with the lingering scent of upscale restaurants and night air Mark often brought home. The wipers thumped. My vision blurred and cleared. My heart hammered against my ribs, heavy and distinct.
The Revolving Door
The car stopped on a moderately busy street. Rain blurred the view. The hotel loomed ahead—coldly modern, glass façade reflecting the grey sky, sharper than its online photos. An immaculate doorman stood like a statue. I cut the engine. Rain drummed the roof. Through the windshield, I watched the huge, slow-turning brass and glass door. Each revolution spat out or swallowed well-dressed figures: businessmen, tourists, entwined couples whispering. My fingers dug into the steering wheel leather. When would Mark walk through? Like the brisk, detached suits? Or...? The icy stone in my gut sank lower.
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