No one knew he was back.
A temporary shutdown at the Calgary metallurgical workshop had unexpectedly given us several weeks off. My friends went to visit their families. I bought a ticket that same night because I wanted to surprise my wife.
For four years he had worked twelve-hour shifts, eaten reheated food in a workshop that smelled of burnt metal and endured winters that cracked my lips.
Each month I would send between two and three thousand dollars to Vivian’s bank account.
That money was supposed to be used to finish the house, build our future and take care of Clara while I was away.
In total, he had sent almost a hundred thousand dollars, in addition to a bonus every December.
I never questioned him.
Terraces and gardening
I trusted my mother.
I trusted Derek.
And most of all, I thought my wife was safe.
