August’s POV

Even the cat looked at me strangely, as if judging me with every step I took. Popcorn, who was usually a whirlwind of fur and mischief, now kept to himself. Everyone in that house missed Isabelle.

I didn't want to admit it. I tried to convince myself that this was a reprieve, a necessary period apart. But by the second day, it became impossible to ignore how painfully quiet the house was without her. How the bed seemed far too big for one person. By the third day, I couldn't wai