He and Melanie were back from the Bahamas.

They stepped out tanned, rested, and dressed for a life that no longer belonged to them. Melanie still wore white resort linen and oversized sunglasses.

Trevor carried a leather travel bag. They stood at the fence, staring at the construction site where the guest house had already been opened to the morning sky.

Even through the silent video feed, I could tell Trevor was yelling.

He threw his arms toward the workers. Melanie covered her mouth with both hands. The children weren’t there, thank God. Valerie had already confirmed they were staying with Melanie’s sister after the trip.

That was the only kindness left in the situation.