His blue presentation folder had practically become an extra member of our household.
One Sunday afternoon, I found him staring at the same page for so long that I finally asked whether he needed a practice audience.
“Only if you’ve suddenly become an expert in warehouse management software,” he joked.
“I can clap at all the right moments.”
He laughed and pulled me into a hug.
That memory still hurts.
Because at the time, I believed I was encouraging a man who was working hard to build a better future for both of us.
His manager, Martin, had hinted that winning the account could lead to a significant promotion.
We had already talked about what that might mean.
A reliable new car.
A proper vacation.
Maybe even the beginning of a savings fund for a larger house.
I wanted him to succeed.
The night before the trip, Tucker seemed unusually tense.
