After 52 years of marriage, my husband put me on a plane without telling me where we were going. In the middle of the flight, he squeezed my hand tightly and whispered, “After today, you will never see your children again.” I was terrified of the man I’ve lived with my whole life, not realizing what he meant…

He nodded.

• You’re right.

But he didn’t say a word anymore.

And this silence scared me the most.

When we finally landed, Robert took our small bags and led me through the airport.

I wouldn’t let him take my hand.

Near the terminal he stopped next to the waiting car.

Are we going to the hotel? he asked.

• No.

• Then where?

He opened the passenger door.

• You’ll see in a few minutes.

I almost turned around and didn’t go back to the airport building.

But after all, they got in the car.

We drove through unfamiliar streets, passing by shops, parks and quiet residential neighborhoods.

Finally, the car stopped in front of a beautiful white house with a garden and a wide veranda.

There were three vehicles near the house.