The apartment door finally opened in the late afternoon. Sheena stepped inside first, followed by Julio carrying a small bag. As soon as the door closed, two small bodies immediately ran toward them.

“Mommy!” Alea shouted as she hugged Sheena’s legs.

“Daddy!” Ghani followed, hugging Julio tightly.

Sheena was startled, then crouched down and hugged Alea tightly. “I’m sorry, sweetheart. Mommy just got home.”

Alea looked up, her eyes watery. “Alea thought Mommy wouldn’t come home.”

“No, Mommy will always come home,” Sheena replied gently. “I’m sorry for making you worried.”

Ghani was still holding on to Julio. “Daddy took so long.”

Julio stroked Ghani’s head. “I’m sorry. Daddy had...