Clive walked into the kids’ room, and right away, a familiar scent drifted over to him. He spotted an aroma diffuser on Penny’s nightstand. She was already out cold, fast asleep.
Timmy, still holding his book, was stifling a yawn. “Dad, you’re home.”
Clive smiled at him. “Yeah. Did Aunt Kristen bring that diffuser?”
“Yeah,” Timmy said, rubbing his eyes. “She said Penny’s been having nightmares, and this would help her sleep. Seems like it’s working.”
Clive glanced at Penny, and sure enough, she was sleeping deeply, looking completely peaceful. That scent brought back a memory—waking up in Kristen’s hospital room, breathing in the same soft fragrance.
He turned to Timmy and asked quietly, “Did you talk to your mom tonight?”
Timmy shook his head. “Not yet. But she always sends me a goodnight text.”
Clive hesitated, then said, “It’s getting late. Why don’t you give her a call? Just check if she’s home.”
Amelia never answered when Clive called, but she always picked up for Timmy.
Timmy didn’t think much of it; he just assumed his dad was worried about Mom. He grabbed his little phone and dialed her number.
It only rang twice before Amelia answered, her voice warm and gentle. “Hi, Timmy.”
“Mom, are you home yet?”
“I’m still on my way, sweetheart.”
Clive stood nearby, listening in. So, she was still out. Was Ryan with her? Were they heading to her place together tonight?
“I’m super tired, Mom,” Timmy said, yawning hard. “Just wanted to say goodnight early.”
“Goodnight, baby. I’ll see you on Saturday.”
“Okay.”
Timmy was about to hang up, but Clive gently took the phone from him and walked over to the window.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABEL
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Karma Doesn’t Sleep: The Revenge Queen Rises