Ara was seated at the vanity, gently running a comb through her hair when John arrived home. The sound of his forceful footfalls echoed through the house as he ascended the stairs in haste before making his entrance into their shared bedroom. She had just changed into a nightgown that skimmed her thighs, assuming that he wouldn't return home for at least another hour or so.
"I was beginning to wonder about your whereabouts, my dear," he remarked in his characteristic gruff tone, bestowing a brief, affectionate peck on her cheek as he began to methodically undress, starting with his tie. His demeanor seemed more agitated than usual. Ara paused mid-stroke, her lips forming a tight line as she observed his reflection in the mirror. The brush in her hand lay forgotten as he strode over to the
