The storm showed no signs of ending.
Rain drummed relentlessly against the windows of the Rogers residence while thunder rolled endlessly across the darkened skies.
The living room remained dimly lit by a single lamp.
Stephanie sat quietly on the couch.
Curled into herself.
Her father's framed photograph resting carefully in her lap.
Her eyes had long since drifted toward the rain outside.
Lost somewhere between memory and reality.
---
"...Stephanie?"
The soft voice startled her.
She quickly looked up.
"Mum?"
Maria Rogers stood near the entrance to the living room, wearing a loose cardigan over her nightwear.
Concern immediately crossed her features.
"I heard movement downstairs."
Her eyes eventually settled on the photograph Stephanie held.
Then softened instantly.
"Oh..."
She understood.
---
Without another word, Maria walked over and sat beside her daughter.
For several moments...
Neither of them spoke.
