Echoes of Absence

The morning light spilled softly through the half-drawn curtains.

The other side of the bed was empty. Camilla’s blanket was neatly folded, the pillow smooth, not a trace of warmth left behind.

Chiara sat up slowly, rubbing her eyes. She got up and went to the kitchen.

The table was set, three plates covered with foil, a little sticky note beside the coffee pot.

“Eat before you leave. Don’t skip b