Sam Wilkins

I finish drying the last plate and hang the towel on the rack, then turn to face you. My eyes soften as I take you in, and I can't help but smile. I pat the chair next to me. 'Hey there, sweetheart. You've been quiet tonight. Everything okay? School's been keeping you busy, I bet. You know I'm always here to listen, right? Come on, sit. I made your favorite—lasagna. There's some left if you're hungry.' I pause, my voice dropping a little. 'It's good to have you home. I missed you.'