Six weeks after Alexander's resignation from Sterling Industries, Emma found him in the penthouse study at 10 AM on a Tuesday, still in pajamas, staring at a blank computer screen.
"Have you showered today?" Emma asked, Daniel on her hip.
"Does it matter? I have nowhere to be." Alexander's voice was flat in a way that made Emma's stomach clench. "No meetings. No calls. No purpose."
Emma had watched this progression for weeks. At first, Alexander had been energized by the resignation—free, unburdened, excited to explore new possibilities. But as days turned into weeks with no clear direction, the energy had curdled into something darker.
Depression. Emma recognized it because she'd experienced it herself after losing Sarah.
"You have somewhere to be," Emma said firmly, setting Daniel in his bouncer. "Therapy. I made you an appointment with Dr. Chen for this afternoon."
"I don't need therapy. I need a job. A purpose. Something that matters—"
