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Richard

It was late when I finally pulled into the driveway, sighing with relief at being ho for work, but now, I found I dreaded going I hated leaving Katy and irls

My flight had been delayed leaving Toronto, then again departing Calgary, and it had been a long day I reminded myself to speak to our travel specialist who handled our bookings I wanted direct flights—no more stops

I noticed although the house was dark, two lights shone in the night The one over the front door forfrom the nurseryThather

I pushed open linted off solanced toward it with a frown I jogged down the driveway, confused at the half-dozen cans on my lawn All the political parties were represented With a curse, I yanked the therabbed my small suitcase and hurried into the house

I took the steps two at a ti into our room, then headed next door to the nursery Exhaustion, stress, and the tension of the day drained away at the sight before me

Dozing in the huge cuddle chair was my beautiful wife, Katy Cradled in her arms was our baby, Heather Tucked beside them was my Gracie She lay across herup as much room, and no doubt her mother’s attention, as possible A discarded bottle lay on the floor They were a beautiful trio, andup far too fast for

I bit backthem I pulled my phone from my pocket, snapped a couple of pictures before I crossed the rooirls in their proper places

I eased Heather fro assurances to Katy as she stirred “It’s okay, sweetheart I’ve got her”

“You’re home,” she mumbled “You’re late… We waited”

“I know, baby I’m sorry”

She tried to pat my face and missed “S’okay”

Chuckling, I held her hand, kissing the palm “I’m here now”