At dawn, the air felt heavier. Peter spent the morning preparing himself for the conversation he planned to have with Natalie. He wanted it to be gentle but firm. Stopping by the café, he picked up sandwiches and coffee, hoping to make the situation more comfortable.
“At least they’ll have a good meal before leaving,” he thought. As he entered the garage, he was greeted by the sight of Natalie sitting up, her children still fast asleep. “Thank you,” she said quietly, her voice tinged with genuine gratitude. They sat together, the silence punctuated only by the rustle of wrappers.