My wife emerged from the shower, her appearance devoid of any evidence of the recent events. She greeted my friend with a handshake that evolved into a lingering hug. After bidding farewell, we departed from his apartment. "Darling, I think I'll sit in the back. I'm feeling a bit fatigued," I informed her as I opened the car door. "Of course, no problem," she responded, taking the driver's seat. She tossed a bag into the...