Chapter 27

That day set the tone for the next few weeks.

While at work, I did my best to hide away from everybody, especially Alyssa. I felt like it was the best plan for both of us. I refused to be the reason for any problems between them. I knew one look from her, and I would forget my concerns about them and do whatever she asked. And I was fearful that just my presence alone would cause them to break apart.

On my days off or whenever I made it home, I would spend my waking time scrubbing, polishing, and scratching away every inch of dirt and grime I could find. By the end of the first week, I had pretty much got the rest of the living room and the kitchen done. Tackling the bathroom and upstairs bedroom became some of the hardest chores I had ever had the misfortune to come across.

At night I spent time staring up at the stars and trying desperately to find a moment of rest from my whirling thoughts. Then, of course, there were some nights I just gave up and got up and continue my cleaning.