We're All Moving Forward, No Time to Turn Back

Just as I finally drifted off, the lights in my room flipped on. The sudden brightness made it hard for me to open my eyes. "Why is the house such a mess? You're home all day; can't you clean up?" I remembered the pile of dirty dishes from my ginger soup, but I felt awful all over, too weak to move.

Daniel thought I was just sulking. "It's just a bracelet; how long are you going to stay mad? I can buy you a new one!" He'd completely forgotten our plans for today. He thought I was still upset about him giving my borrowed bracelet to Ada.

I sighed, "I'm tired and not feeling well; I want to sleep." His irritation flared at my indifference, and he turned to the guest room. I mustered the strength to switch off the light and fell into a deep sleep until noon.

When I woke up, Daniel had sent me a message. "I was too busy yesterday to check my phone. Let's go out for dinner tonight. Dress nicely." Normally, I'd have been thrilled, and excited to get ready, but now, I didn't even want to put on lipstick.

When the time came, I still didn't see Daniel. Instead of an explanation, he sent me a location. When I arrived, I caught a hint of disdain in his eyes. "Why did you come dressed like this? Today's client is important."

In the past, Daniel didn't want me interfering with his work; he preferred I stayed home, handling the household and taking care of him. I thought this dinner might be his way of apologizing, but it turned out the client called out to me first.