I hadn’t seen Matthew since Grace’s passing. He appeared ashen, evidently worn out and not well-rested. He seemed defeated and didn’t mince his words, “Let Melanie go. My family and I have laid my mom to rest.

“Melanie didn’t attend the funeral as you wished. It’s been a week now, so you should let your anger go.”

I could tell Matthew was emotional, but I scoffed, wondering what he meant by “as you wished.” Still, I glanced at him indifferently and refused to retort. I hadn’t felt the need to engage with Matthew since his mom’s passing.

When he noticed my indifference, his tone turned colder, “We have a child together, so how could you watch a son cry his mom daily? What gave you the right to denounce me so bitterly?”

Matthew’s expression was righteous as he struggled to contain his emotions. I calmly looked at him and spoke distantly, “You came to the wrong place. You shouldn’t be here if you want your wife to return. Go to the cops instead. Melanie’s release isn’t up to me.”

Mat