What Love Buried

Synopsis

The crystal award felt cold against my palm as I stepped into the elevator of our luxury high-rise. The inscription caught the light: "For Outstanding Contribution to Domestic Violence Awareness." A small, sad smile touched my lips. If only they knew. My heels clicked against the marble floor of our penthouse foyer as I set down my clutch. The apartment was eerily quiet, save for the distant hum of the city below our floor-to-ceiling windows. Moonlight spilled across our imported wool carpet, casting long shadows that seemed to reach for me. "Calvin?" I called out, my voice echoing in the emptiness. No response. I glanced at my watch—1:37 AM. The gala had run later than expected, with endless speeches and networking that left my face aching from forced smiles. Calvin had texted earlier saying he was tired and heading home. I'd hoped we might talk tonight. I had news that couldn't wait much longer. My hand drifted unconsciously