23rd FebruaryI woke up the next morning to the sound of low voices downstairs. For a few seconds I just laid back staring at the ceiling, the events of the previous day settling over me again, My body still carried a faint, unresolved ache from it.I forced myself out of bed, pulled on a simple gown, and went downstairs.Hosea was already at the kitchen table.He looked freshly showered, wearing a clean dark shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows. A cup of coffee sat in front of him. Mom was at the stove making eggs, talking to him in that brighter tone she used when she was happy.She turned when she heard me.“Oh good, you’re up. Ana, this is Hosea. Hosea, this is my daughter.” I took in a deep breath of exhaustion. It felt my skin was cracking with de javu . It’s like I was reliving this same day again.I met his eyes for half a second. We both played it completely straight.“Nice to meet you,” I said.“You too,” he replied, voice
Last Updated : 2026-09-24 Read more