The Blackwoods

The Calm Pt.2

As the sleepover looms closer, the Clarkson family busies themselves with preparations, unaware of the darkness that awaits them. Michael adjusted his tie in the mirror, giving his reflection a satisfied nod. Tonight was special—a rare date night with Marry that he had meticulously planned. The dim glow of the bedroom lamp cast a warm light across the room.

He walked towards the closet, where Marry was slipping into her elegant navy dress. The soft rustling of fabric was the only sound as she smoothed the material over her curves. Michael paused in the doorway, captivated by her reflection in the mirror. The dress highlighted her slender figure and made her eyes sparkle with a hint of anticipation.

"You look stunning," Michael said, his voice a low murmur as he crossed the room to stand behind her. He gently placed his hands on her waist, feeling the soft, cool fabric of her dress under his fingers. Leaning down, he pressed a kiss to her neck, breathing in the faint scent of her perfume.

Marry giggled, the sound like a delicate chime, and leaned back into his embrace. "And you, Mr. Clarkson, look quite handsome yourself," she replied, her voice filled with affection. Michael grinned, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Oh, you mean this old thing?" he said, tugging at his tie. "I just threw it on. Found it in the back of the closet between my superhero cape and the disco suit." Marry laughed, ''I thought I threw those out''

Michael's smile widened. "I love you, Mrs Clarkson," he said, his tone warm and loving. Marry turned in his arms, her eyes sparkling with love and excitement. "I love you too." she said softly, running her fingers through his hair. For a moment, they simply held each other, enjoying the closeness. The room felt like a cocoon, filled with warmth and the promise of a perfect evening. But Michael's expression shifted, a shadow of concern darkening his features.

"Just... we can't be too lovey-dovey at the Blackwoods'," he said, his voice tinged with hesitation. Marry's smile faded, replaced by a look of confusion and concern. "Why not?" she asked, her brows furrowing. Michael sighed, his hold on her loosening slightly. "David and Olivia are going through a rough patch," he explained, his tone gentle yet serious. "I didn't want to mention it earlier and ruin the mood, but I thought you should know."

Marry's eyes widened in surprise, then narrowed slightly in frustration. "Why are you only telling me this now, Michael?" she asked, her voice edged with irritation. "We're about to leave!" He ran a hand through his hair, looking slightly guilty. "I know, I'm sorry. I just... didn't want to cast a shadow over our evening. But I felt it was important to mention before we got there." Marry crossed her arms, her posture stiffening. "So, what are we supposed to do? Just act like everything's fine?"

Michael shook his head, trying to soothe her. "No, of course not. I just think we should be mindful, that's all. I talked to David about our therapist, Dr. Emily Wells, at work. I thought it might help." Marry's eyes flashed with a mix of surprise and annoyance. "You told David about our therapist?" she repeated, her voice rising slightly. Michael nodded, his expression earnest. "Yes. He seemed really upset, and I didn't know what else to say. I wanted to help."

For a moment, Marry stared at him, her emotions warring within her. Then, her expression softened, and she sighed, her shoulders relaxing. "I understand. I just... wish you had told me earlier," she said, her tone more resigned than angry.

Michael pulled her into a gentle hug, kissing her forehead. "I'm sorry, love. I didn't mean to spring it on you like this. I just saw how much David was hurting." Marry leaned into him, her arms wrapping around his waist. "I know. I hope they find the help they need," she said softly, her voice filled with compassion.

They stood there for a moment, holding each other, the atmosphere shifting from tense to tender once more. The warmth of their love and understanding filled the room, and despite the concerns, they were ready to face the evening together.

The drive to the Blackwoods' was short and uneventful. The sun had set, casting a gentle twilight glow over the quiet suburban streets. Michael and Marry chatted amiably, discussing their plans for the evening and enjoying the rare moment of uninterrupted conversation.

As they pulled up to the Blackwoods' house, Michael parked the car and turned to Jimmy in the back seat. "Ready for your sleepover, buddy?" he asked, grinning.

Jimmy nodded eagerly. "Yeah! Can't wait to see Jack."

Michael and Marry walked Jimmy to the front door, which swung open to reveal Olivia, her presence almost palpable. She greeted them with a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes, her voice dripping with an unsettling charm. "Ah, hello, Clarksons! Come in, come in."