I was spent. Rarely have I felt so exhausted, physically and emotionally.  I knew I was spiraling into depression,  but I had no words for it, nor the reason for my predicament.  I got up and told Ray I was leaving.

“But it’s only just started, ” he said, frowning.

No Ray it started ages ago,  you were the one who came late. And I’m not hanging around waiting for you to finish your job.

Was what I wanted to say, but didn’t. Instead I forced a smile and asked him if he would be okay on his own. He didn’t smile back,  only glanced back down at the event itinerary.  Maybe he was pissed I was leaving him alone.

Like I gave a damn. I strode away from the grand hall and out to my car. It was dark.

I couldn’t wait to get home.