"Hey munchkins, how was school today?"
I ask as I dish out some dinner onto their plates. Avery starts chattering about his day, excitedly recounting a story about his science project, while Madison nods along, listening intently. They seem happy, and it warms my heart to see them like this.
"Mom, I had the best day ever!"
Madison exclaims, her eyes shining with excitement.
"That's great, sweetie! What made it so awesome?"
I reply, smiling at her enthusiasm.
"We had a surprise quiz in math, and I got the highest score in the class!"
Madison beams, her pride evident.
"Wow, that's amazing! I'm so proud of you,"
I say, reaching over to ruffle her hair affectionately.
Avery chimes in,
"And I made a new friend during recess! His name is Jack, and he's really good at soccer."
"That's fantastic, buddy! It's always nice to make new friends,"
I say, giving him a thumbs up.
As we continue to chat about their day, I feel grateful for these moments of joy and connection with my kids.
As we eat, we share stories about our day, laughing at the funny moments and offering comfort for the not-so-great ones. It's moments like these, simple and precious, that remind me of how blessed I am to have them by my side.
"Mom, when is uncle Zayn coming over again?"
Madison asks, her curiosity evident.
"Yeah, we miss him,"
Avery adds, nodding in agreement.
I smile at their eagerness to see Zayn.
"He's been really busy lately, but I'm sure he'll come over soon. Maybe we can plan something fun for when he does."
"Can we play board games with him?"
Madison suggests, her eyes lighting up with excitement.
"Or maybe he can teach us some cool card tricks!"
Avery suggests enthusiastically.
I chuckle at their ideas.
"Sure, we can do all of that! Let's plan a special day for when Zayn comes over next."
The kids nod in agreement, already brainstorming ideas for their next visit with Zayn. I'm so happy that they have fully accepted him in our lives , it is times like these that i really pray we stay together through it all. My kids really need him close. I do too.
The kids are already in bed now. I've also just taken a shower. I'm so ready for bed , I've had quite a long day with all the interviews that took place.
"Hey, Kattie, how was your day?"
Zayn's voice sounds warm and comforting over the phone.
"It was good, just busy as usual. How about you?"
I reply, settling into bed as I chat with my man
"Long, but productive. I've been thinking about you all day though."
He admits, his tone softening.
"That's sweet. I miss you. The kids also asked about you during dinner."
I confess, feeling a warmth spread through me at his words.
"I miss you too, darling. I miss you guys. Hey, how about I come over tomorrow evening? We can have a quiet night in."
He suggests, his voice filled with warmth.
"I'd love that."
I reply, a smile forming on my lips.
"I'll try getting off work early so that I'll cook for us."
"No baby , it's fine, I'll bring some takeout and we can just relax together."
He says, his tone reassuring. This man is God sent I swear.
"Sounds like a plan. I can't wait to see you."
I say, feeling excitement bubbling up inside me.
"Me too. Sweet dreams, Kattie. I'll see you tomorrow," he says softly before we say our goodbyes and hang up.
I dial Candy's number, my concern growing with each unanswered ring. Finally, after what feels like an eternity, she picks up.
"Hello?"
Her voice sounds strained, and I can't help but worry even more.
"Candy, it's me. Are you okay?"
I ask, my concern evident in my voice.
"Oh, Kattie, I'm so glad you called. I'm not okay."
She admits, her voice trembling slightly. Lord , what's going on?
"What's wrong? Is it Alex?"
I ask, fearing the worst.
"Yes, it's him. He... he lost his temper again, Kattie. I'm scared."
She confesses, her voice breaking.
"Oh no, Candy. I'm so sorry. Have you thought about what we discussed? Maybe seeking professional help?"
I suggest, hoping to offer some support.
"I have, Kattie. I really have. I just don't know what to do anymore."
She admits, sounding defeated.
"It's going to be okay, Candy. We'll figure this out together, I promise."
I assure her, trying to offer some comfort.
"Thank you, Kattie. I don't know what I'd do without you."
She says softly, her gratitude evident in her voice.
"Anytime, Candy. I'm here for you, always," I reply, feeling a sense of determination to help my friend through this tough time.
"He left saying he needs some fresh air. When he gets back , I'll talk to him about the therapy. "
"Okay ,good. We'll talk tomorrow at work , have a goodnight sweetheart."
"Thanks for calling. Night"
I'm so worried about my friend but my eyes are heavy with sleep…
Arriving at the salon before Candy is a rare occurrence, and it leaves me feeling oddly unsettled. I make my way to my office, the quietness of the salon amplifying my thoughts. Something feels off today, but I can't quite put my finger on it.
As I settle into my chair, I find myself anxiously checking the time, waiting for Candy to arrive. Maybe she's just running late, I try to reassure myself, but the nagging feeling in the pit of my stomach won't go away.
The absence of Candy is conspicuous, especially considering her punctuality and dedication to her role as my manager. I can sense the tension among the staff as they exchange worried glances and whisper among themselves.
It's unlike Candy to be late without any prior notice or explanation. I try to remain composed and focused on the tasks at hand, but my concern for her grows with each passing minute. Where could she be?
As I return to my office, I decide to call Mary, one of the hairdressers, hoping she might have some insight into Candy's whereabouts. I inquire about Alex, hoping he might have some information about Candy's absence, but Mary informs me that he's not in either. This only adds to my growing sense of unease. Where could they both be? I instruct Mary to return to work and attempt to contact both Alex and Candy on their phones.
After numerous unsuccessful attempts, it becomes apparent that their phones have been switched off. This revelation deepens my concern even further. Why did they switch their phones off after not answering for a while?
What had Alex done to my friend? With anxiety coursing through me, I urgently dial Zayn's number, my mind racing with worry about Candy's safety.
"Zayn, something's wrong. Candy's missing, and I'm really scared."
I blurt out as soon as he picks up.
"Last night she mentioned some troubling stuff about Alex's behavior, and now both their phones are off. I don't know what to do."
My voice trembles with fear as I recount the details to him, desperate for reassurance or guidance. Zayn's voice is steady as he tries to calm me down. I honestly will calm down when I know that Candy is okay.
"Listen, Katie, we'll figure this out. Stay calm. Have you asked your workers if anyone knows where Alex lives? We need to find him."
I nod, even though he can't see me.
"None of them know anything, just his name."
I reply, frustration seeping into my tone.
"I'm on my way. Give me 30 minutes."
Zayn arrives swiftly, wrapping me in his comforting embrace. Tears stream down my cheeks as I cling to him, finding solace in his presence. Moving on , we check the resume he sent on our database. He applied online for the job.
As we delve deeper into the situation, Zayn's suspicions grow. The nonexistent references raise red flags, prompting us to consider the possibility that Alex might not be who he claims to be.
Zayn's request for space in my office feels like a beacon of hope amidst the chaos. As he steps away to make calls, I can't help but feel a surge of gratitude for his presence and support during this difficult time.
I watch him with a mix of anticipation and anxiety, hoping that his efforts will lead us closer to finding Candy and resolving the situation. I exit , giving him the space he needs.
I quickly make my way to the eating hall area where the staff is gathered, their faces reflecting the concern and uncertainty that hangs heavy in the air. With a deep breath, I address them, my voice steady despite the turmoil churning inside me.
"I know many of you are worried about Candy's absence, and I share your concerns."
I begin, meeting each gaze with sincerity.
"Right now, our priority is to ensure her safety and well-being. If anyone has any information or suspicions about where she might be, please don't hesitate to come forward. We need to work together to find her and bring her back safely."
The staff nods in understanding, their expressions somber yet determined. With their support, I feel a glimmer of hope amidst the uncertainty.