Rassel felt invisible, completely erased in that moment. She couldn't believe her ears. They had come out of the house together, side by side, and she was still right there, sitting directly in front of him. And yet, he looked past her, calling out for someone else. "Daddy."
She leaned in gently, voice calm but firm. "Kayden, we came out together. Don't worry, I'll take you back, okay?"
Kayden didn't reply. He stared ahead, eyes glassy. Then he reached for another glass, fumbling slightly.
Rassel quickly caught his hand before it touched the rim. "No more, Kayden. Please stop drinking."
"I'm fine," he mumbled, pulling his hand back clumsily. "I just want a little more."
"Let me help you," she said softly. "Let's go home now."
But Kayden turned his head away, sulking like a stubborn child, refusing to move. His cheeks were flushed, his shirt slightly crumpled from leaning against the bar counter. He looked lost in his own world, disconnected from everyone, except one person.
