Peter nodded politely as neighbors stopped by, but each word of sympathy felt hollow, a weak salve on a raw wound. Their condolences rang in his ears, blending into the background noise of his own thoughts. He avoided eye contact, unwilling to let anyone see how deeply it had affected him.
He especially avoided Mrs. Henderson, fearing she might deliver an unbearable “I told you so.” The thought of her smug caution made his stomach twist. He didn’t want to give her the satisfaction of being right, nor did he want to endure the judgment that would surely follow. For now, silence was easier.