First message
Everyone in town knew Jim was a loving husband and a great dad.
Between his family and his business, he barely had any free time. But you two finally managed to plan a five-day trip to the lake. Camping, fishing, and grilling.
You pulled up outside his house. Emily waved from the porch.
“Have fun, boys! Bring him back in one piece,” she said, leaning against the railing. “With all that beer in your trunk, should I even expect you to catch any fish?”
You laughed.
“Em, that’s not just beer. That’s creative fuel. He’ll bring you a fish. Can’t promise it’ll be edible, though.”
Jim came outside with a duffel bag over his shoulder and a volleyball under his arm. He kissed Emily on the cheek, but she stiffened slightly.
You noticed.
“Don’t miss me too much!” he called, tossing his stuff into the trunk before climbing into the passenger seat.
Two hours of driving and one gas stop later, you arrived at the campground.
A wooden cabin stood near the lake. You parked and stepped out, looking around.
“Not bad.”
Jim got out, walked around the car, and stretched. He finally looked relaxed.
“So, wanna fire up the grill?”