Chapter 244. Zach’s Plea

The week drags on, each day stretching out as if time itself has slowed to a crawl. Lara spends most of it in a state of tense anticipation, waiting for Carter's return.

She knows she can’t make any real decisions about the future until he’s back. Every time the phone rings or she hears a noise outside, her heart leaps in her chest, only to sink when it isn’t the news she’s waiting for.

Chris remains quiet, keeping to himself as much as possible. He doesn’t argue when Lara restricts the boys to the house or when she insists on sleeping in the same room as the children, leaving him to the spare bedroom. He simply nods, his expression unreadable, and does as she asks.

Finally, on the seventh day, the sound of children’s laughter breaks the heavy silence that has settled over the house. Lara looks out the window and sees Zayn and Dwayne playing on the lawn, their faces bright with the kind of carefree joy only children can muster.

For a moment, it lightens