Healing the Wounds
Thad’s ultimatum left his mother in stunned silence. He took Annie’s hand and led her out of the house, feeling a mix of sadness and resolve. The bond with his mother had been deeply fractured, but his priority was clear—protecting his wife and their future together.

Back at their apartment, Thad and Annie sat together, the weight of the confrontation hanging heavily over them. “What do we do now?” Annie asked softly.
