Leo Grant returned home from work to find the living room dark and silent, with no sound from the TV. His hand paused as he opened the door, puzzled.
Was Holly asleep or not home?
Holly had said she'd wait for him to come home and go out to dinner together. She had called him half an hour ago, asking about his return time. There's no reason for her not to be home.
The heating was still on inside, as Holly always kept it running whether she was home or not.
Holly was afraid of the cold, so the house was always warm and cozy.
In winter, darkness falls earlier. It was just past six, and the sky was already completely dark.
Leo reached to turn on the light, but just as his hand touched the switch and before he could press it, the living room suddenly lit up.
Warm yellow light, not particularly bright, but exceptionally cozy. Leo's hand froze, staring incredulously at the scene.
Holly stood not far from him, holding a cake and wearing a playful smile.
