Love's Second Life: Rebuilding From Scratch

After dinner, I went straight to bed.

In the middle of the night, I was woken by a crashing sound from the living room.

Arthur had night blindness, so I always leave a light on for him when he comes home late.

I thought this gesture would make him feel the warmth of home, but he never seemed to care.

Tonight, before going to bed, I turned off all the lights.

Without that worry on my mind, I slept more soundly than ever before.

Arthur walked into the bedroom, switched on the bedside lamp, and said in a slightly irritated tone, "Why didn't you leave the light on? I almost fell just now."

I simply replied, "Hmm," without offering any explanation.

In the past, I would have responded with ten sentences for every one of Arthur's, but not anymore.

Perhaps sensing my indifference, he initiated a conversation. "Aria was there when you called today, so I couldn't talk much about our private matters."

I nodded. "Indeed."

He seemed surprised by my calmness, his gaze lingering on my face for a moment. After a pause, he added, "Are you feeling unwell anywhere?"

I shook my head. "No."

Arthur got into bed from the other side, pulled back the covers, and turned his back to me.

His voice was devoid of any warmth.

"That's good."