The Night They Went Missing

Tanisha

4 days before she went missing

24th April 2018

Loud banging noises awoke me from my peaceful sleep. I wished I could stay asleep and whoever woke me up, would be very sorry.

 The door to the bedroom swung open with George carrying a tray of bacon, eggs and sausage with a cup of tea into the room. His loud singing voice wasn't good and I would give anything to make it stop. But it was the thought that counted.

 Pushing myself up against the bed to sit up properly, George propped the tray of food in front of me, kissing my forehead.

 "Happy birthday, love." he said quietly as he sat on the edge of the bed beside me.

 "You didn't have to do all this, but thanks."

 "You have a big day ahead of you and don't think I've forgotten about the surprise I have in store." he said, tapping the side of his nose.

 I would try and pry the secret out of his tightly sealed mouth, but I've tried that before and got nowhere. The room quickly filled with the smell of breakfast as the morning sun gleamed onto the food.

"We have a busy day today, so once you've ate that, we are going for a walk and then to the surprise." he announced before kissing my head and closing the door behind him as he walked out.

 It was strange, seeing him still here with me, in the house. The humming of his breath could be heard down the stairs and a smile tugged at my mouth. For once in a long time, I wasn't alone in our home.

The breakfast was just right, like it always was. He knew me too well and knew just what I wanted my food to be like. I should probably put more effort into our relationship instead of having an affair. But I had my reasons, even if no one thought they were valid.

 After eating the breakfast that I quickly devoured, I began to get ready. We hadn't spent this much time in a long time; I was going to cherish every moment of it before it all slipped away.

 My blue jeans and white top, just fit around my body. Maybe I should have layed off the food. I grabbed my black leather jacket from the wardrobe and sprinted down the stairs to see George already waiting. His blue top gripping to his body and his jeans doing the same.

 "You ready?" he asked, holding his hand out to me.

 "Very." I responded, taking his hand and walking out together, which was a feeling I had missed dearly.

 The sun was brighter than I had seen in this week, with birds flying above us as we walked along the stone path. Patches of fields were beside us with families walking beside us. Dogs ran around, chasing sticks and tails wagging furiously. A park was further down the path where I could see children swinging on the swings.

 Mine and George's hands were still intertwined. Afraid to let go and think this moment – that we hadn't had in a long time – would end if I let go, I squeezed his hand tighter.

 Any worries for this day washed away and the sheer sight of my husband, who was now finally taking time out of his day for me.

 "Do you remember this place? We used to come here all the time." he said, his steps in beat with mine.

 With Elijah.