AVA'S POV
Morning sunlight filtered softly through the curtains as I stirred beneath the cotton sheets.
The hum of the city beyond our windows felt distant, almost muffled, as though the world had decided to slow down just long enough for me to catch my breath.
I sat up carefully, mindful of my growing bump, and rested my hand over it. It still felt surreal some days. To feel this quiet life forming inside me, like a promise unfolding slowly.
The room was warm, calm. Ethan had already gotten up, I noticed.
The faint scent of coffee lingered in the air, and his watch was gone from the nightstand.
I reached for my robe and made my way into the living area, where the comforting clink of dishes told me exactly where he was.
"Good morning," I said softly.
He turned with a smile, one hand holding a mug, the other already extending mine. "Morning. You were out cold. I didn't want to wake you."
I took the mug and curled onto the couch. "Thank you."
