I cracked two eggs into the boiling water—a luxury I usually denied myself. I sat down and ate the entire bowl slowly, savoring every bite.
Then I dialed a number I hadn't called in a long time.
"I need you to handle something for me."
After giving my instructions, I packed a small bag.
I left the mess. I left the apartment. I went back to my hometown in the countryside.
For three days, I lived in peace. I cooked what I wanted, slept when I wanted, and answered to no one. The silence was healing.
On the fourth day, my phone rang.
Aria. Her voice was trembling, thick with panic and tears.
"Mom! Where did you go? Something terrible has happened at home!"
