Chapter 15 - The Empty Driveway
Two days later, Lily was officially discharged. The doctors were thrilled with her rapid recovery, noting that her young, resilient body had bounced back perfectly once the anaphylaxis was treated.
Driving back to Elm Street, Sarah’s knuckles were white as she gripped the steering wheel. She dreaded pulling into her own driveway. The front yard, which had always been a place of joy, now felt like a crime scene.
As they turned the corner, Sarah braced herself. But as the house came into view, she let out a breath she didn't realize she was holding.
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The yard was immaculate. The deflated balloons, the scattered plates, and the tangled ribbons were completely gone. More importantly, the large green trash bin was missing.
David was standing on the porch, holding a small welcome-home balloon. He walked down to the car as they parked. "I called the city," he explained, opening Lily’s door. "Had them take that specific bin away permanently. And a few of the neighbors helped me clean up the yard. We wanted it to feel like home again."
