The house was cool. The AC was humming. The TV was on.

“Margaret?” he called out, stepping into the foyer. “Ella? I’m home!”

There was a crash from the living room. Margaret appeared in the hallway, her eyes wide, her face pale. She looked like she had seen a ghost.

“Daniel!” she gasped. “You… oh my god. You’re early.”

She didn’t run to hug him. She didn’t smile. She stood in the middle of the hallway, blocking the path to the kitchen.

Daniel frowned, his smile fading. “Surprise?” He dropped his bag. “Where’s my girl? Is she at school?”