Chapter 3 - The Party's End
“Kids and their wild imaginations!” Amber suddenly laughed, her voice shrill and echoing awkwardly through the silent living room. She stood up quickly, smoothing her dress with shaking hands. “He’s been watching too many cartoon bugs on his iPad. Anyone want more cake?”
Nobody wanted more cake.
The guests exchanged incredibly uncomfortable glances. Within ten minutes, people began making hurried excuses about babysitters and early morning meetings. The grand birthday party completely dissolved.
Richard was the first one out the door. He didn't even look David in the eye as he practically sprinted to his luxury car.
Once the house was finally empty, David didn't yell. He didn't scream at his wife. The cinematic realism of his terrifying calm was far worse than any violent outburst.
He quietly took Noah by the hand and led him upstairs to his bedroom.
“Get ready for bed, buddy,” David said softly, helping his son into his pajamas. He knelt down, keeping his voice gentle and completely steady. “Noah... what kind of caterpillars did the man give you?”
Noah yawned, rubbing his eyes. “They’re fuzzy and long. He told me to play with them in the hallway so he and Mommy could have quiet meetings in your room. They always lock the door.”
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David’s heart shattered into a million jagged pieces, instantly replaced by a dark, freezing wave of adrenaline.
👉 David tucked his son into bed, knowing exactly what he had to do while his wife was busy cleaning downstairs.
