It was nice to see that, when the situation was dire, every one of her kids had the capacity to behave like human beings. It made her feel like she’d done at least something right as a mother.

When all three of her kids could be heard heading upstairs, dragging her suitcase behind them, Eric refilled her wineglass and then his own. She watched the bright burgundy liquid cascade against her glass and then settle into a placid pool of alcohol that she was going to leave there. The last thing she needed tonight was another drink.

Eric picked up his glass with one hand and placed his other on top of hers on the table between them. “Are you okay?” he asked and took a drink. “How is Simon holding up?” He squeezed her hand. She could feel his eyes on the side of her face, searching her expression.

She turned to face him. “I don’t really want to talk about it right now.”

“Of course.” He nodded. “Whenever you’re ready, I’m here for you.”

Eileen pushed her chair back and stood up. “I’m going to unpack and get ready for bed.”

“I’m sure you’re exhausted,” he said, still searching her face, reading her reactions. Like on the phone two days ago, he was trying to determine what she knew. Dave must have approached him again.

“Yes. I’m pretty tired.”

“I’ll be up in a minute. I just want to turn on the dishwasher, put some things away.”

Eileen nodded.

“Did you notice the house?” He smiled, so proud of himself for the work. “The kids even helped.”

“Yes, it looks nice. Thank you.” So great to know that all this time you’ve been completely capable and only unwilling to help out with our lives. She headed for the stairs, the revelations of the last week weighing on her all at once, her legs like anchors dragging.

In her room, the kids left her bags next to her dresser. She didn’t feel like unpacking right now; she’d do it in the morning. She picked her tote up, carried it to the bed, and pulled her cell phone from the small pocket she was now always careful to keep it in.

She pulled up her contacts and found Simon’s number.

I’m here, safe at home. Call me if you need anything, even just to talk. Anytime, seriously.

She placed her phone on the bedspread beside her and stared at the envelope in her bag. Eric was trying to read her, because he had no intention of telling her. He was trying to figure out if he was going to get away with this. Maybe he had promised Dave to do as he asked and stay away from his wife.

Never mind that they worked together and saw each other every fucking day.