One week after we laid Adam to rest, Lucas\u2019s first birthday arrived. The last thing I wanted to do was attend a children\u2019s birthday party, but family obligations pulled at me. \u201cAdam would want you to go,\u201d my mother insisted during one of her daily check-in calls. \u201cHe always said family comes first.\u201d<\/p>\n
So I found myself driving to Cassandra\u2019s small rental house in a less desirable part of town, a wrapped gift on the passenger seat and dark circles under my eyes that no amount of concealer could hide. I had barely slept since Adam died, spending nights staring at his empty side of the bed, reaching for a warmth that was no longer there. I parked behind a line of cars and took several deep breaths before grabbing the gift and heading inside. No one should have to fake happiness so soon after losing their husband, I thought. But I plastered on a smile and knocked on the door.<\/p>\n
Cassandra\u2019s friend Jenna opened it, her eyes widening slightly at the sight of me. \u201cOh, Bridget, you made it,\u201d she said, her voice oddly strained. She glanced over her shoulder before stepping aside. \u201cCome in. Everyone is in the backyard.\u201d<\/p>\n
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