I have gone through hostage training and learned how to endure under extreme pressure and torture scenarios, but nothing prepares me for mornings where his gaze never meets mine. The kitchen chaos, the clanging dishes, the yelling all pale in comparison to the silence between us. Not being seen, not being recognized, feels like its own kind of captivity. What I do next might not be a good strategy, but at this time it is the only option I see.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aparalleluniverse.substack.com