Richard's disappointment

****

As the world darkened around him, Richard found clarity in a single thought. He jumped into his car and sped off, pushing the accelerator to the floor.

Upon arriving home, he had a minor accident but luckily escaped with just a scratch. Walking in, he limped, his right foot causing him obvious discomfort.

"Richard, what happened?" Rosella rushed to him, worried.

"It was just an accident, Mom," he reassured.

Roberto's stern voice broke through, joining the conversation as he approached them. "Can you give us a moment?" he asked Rosella, wanting to talk to Richard alone.

"When were you planning to tell me?" Roberto's frustration was evident.

"I'll fix it, Dad," Richard promised, a hint of urgency in his voice.

"You should have been more careful," Roberto scolded. "How did you even find out? I told no one," Richard questioned, confused about the revelation.

Secrets hung heavy in the air. As the night had started with a burst of determination had led to unintended consequences, and Ri