I was uncertain about the time Ivan arrived home, as I had retreated upstairs to my room after a conversation with my mother-in-law, attempting to find solace in sleep. I was determined not to dwell on my worries and shed tears.
My husband's warm embrace enveloped me, and he softly murmured something, but my extreme exhaustion left me unable to comprehend his words. The next morning, I awoke before Ivan, showered, and descended to the kitchen to assist with breakfast preparations.
My in-laws, Mom and Dad, were already up, sipping their morning coffee and reading the newspaper.
"We didn't sleep well last night, your mom and I..."
I looked at my father-in-law while I was cutting vegetables. I'm the one who makes salad for my sister's breakfast. "Why is that, Dad?"
"We were concerned abo
