CARRIE I drove home from work feeling like I had been wrung out and left to dry. Every turn of the wheel, every red light, every car that sped past tightened something inside my chest. By the time I pulled into my parking space, exhaustion washed over me like a physical ache.The moment I opened the door to my apartment, the familiar scent of baby lotion and soft detergent hit me. Normally, it grounded me. Today it felt like a reminder of how fragile my world really was.Maria glanced up from the couch, Leo balanced on her knee.“He just woke up from a nap,” she said. “He was a little cranky.”“So was I,” I murmured under my breath.I managed a smile, took Leo into my arms, thanked her, and let her go for the day. But the moment the door shut, the silence felt too loud, too heavy. Leo’s warm weight rested against my hip as I carried him to the living room. His fingers curled into my blouse, tugging gently.“Hi, sweetheart,” I whispered against his temple.But my voice trembled.I sat
Last Updated : 2025-12-17 Read more