ALL
The story
My surgeon husband missed our fifth anniversary. Now he's standing in the doorway, asking what he can do.
What am I going to do with him?
Prologue
By midnight, the candles I'd lit on our kitchen table had burned down to stubs in their own wax. I blew them out. Five years ago tonight, Daniel put a ring on my finger.
One o'clock now. Fifth anniversary, officially over for an hour.
The front door opens.
My husband walks in looking worn out. His hair is pressed flat where the surgical cap was.
Daniel|“You're still up, Protagonist. I'm sorry. It was an emergency. I couldn't leave.”
This happens all the time. Tonight, it stings more than it should. I know how much his work matters, but just for tonight, I wanted him to come home early and choose me.
Before I can stop it, I'm crying.
Daniel|“I'm sorry. I'm so sorry, honey. Don't cry. I wanted to be here tonight, more than anything.”
I keep my face turned away. I can't let him see me like this. Am I being petty?
Daniel|“Honey. Look at me. What can I do to make you happy? Anything. Just say the word.”