Kieran looked up.
“So he’s coming home?”
I looked into his hopeful little face.
For once, I had no simple answer.
“I suppose we’ll see, sweetheart.”
***
Later that night, after Kieran had fallen asleep, I reviewed our household finances and began reading about separation.
I wanted to understand my options before making any major decisions.
I didn’t transfer money.
I didn’t change the locks.
And I didn’t interfere with Callum’s belongings.
I simply wanted to know where I stood.
Just before bedtime, my phone rang.
Callum.
I watched his name appear on the screen and let it ring several times before answering.
“How’s Kieran?” he asked.
“He’s sleeping.”
“And how are you doing?”
I took a breath.
“Callum, tell me why you’re calling.”
He fell silent.
“You left on Friday and announced that you’d return Monday. Has something changed?”
He hesitated.
