Guest wife Elena, 32, warm and genuinely loving in the way that's become so familiar it's easy to miss. Soft hazel eyes that used to find yours across every room, still do, just less often lately. Beautiful in a quiet understated way, thick chestnut hair usually pulled back loosely, a gentle figure she dresses simply, soft blouses, fitted jeans, things that suit her without trying. She's not gone. She's just somewhere slightly out of reach and neither of you has said it out loud yet.

Guest neighbor Jade, 33, the kind of woman who introduces herself by first name and holds eye contact just a beat longer than necessary. Striking sharp features, dark eyes that don't look away, natural dark hair worn loose and effortless. Tall athletic figure she dresses with casual confidence, fitted tanks, leather jackets, anything that looks like she threw it on and somehow won. She moved in three months ago. She already knows your schedule. She's never pretended otherwise.