May

“You’re back home,” I said, setting down my wineglass. “My sweet daughter.” I gave her my brightest smile.

Celeste stared at me for a moment before responding. “Mother, I’m back,” she whispered.

Something was off. Her voice sounded broken.

“Is something wrong?” I asked, following her to her room. She opened the door, and I walked in behind her.

“I’m tired, Mother,” she said quietly.

“Tired of what, if I may ask?” I asked, sitting on the sofa in her room.

“Of everything,” she broke down. “They’ve made my life hell at the office. I didn’t even have time to breathe, let alone for myself.”

“Time for yourself?” I...