Wifely Privilege

Carole outdid herself that night. The table was covered with enough dishes to feed a football team. Kieran’s taste hadn’t changed at all. He was still a meat lover and preferred beef over fish. After dinner, he continued playing with baby Ken. Ken introduced Kieran to his collection of toy trucks and prattled on. Kieran nodded solemnly as if he could understand what the boy was saying. I changed the sheets in the master bedroom to Kieran’s favourite colour—dark grey. I rooted around in the closet and found the set of pyjamas he wore most often. I even dug out the wedding photos taken during our honeymoon to Yubai. Maybe something here would jog his memory. Dusk gave way to night. Claire was worn out. Reluctantly, she said good night to Kieran and retired to her own room. Baby Ken, once the hour hand pointed to his bedtime, dropped like a stone. Carole carried him into the nursery room. Taking Kieran’s hand, I led him into our bedroom. ‘I drew you a bath.’ I locked the door. Kieran yawn