That night, after they tucked Isabella into bed—after her endless chatter about weddings, cakes, and princess dresses finally faded into soft, sleepy breaths—Daniel and Marian retreated to their room.
The house grew quiet.
Peaceful.
The kind of quiet that only came after a full day—after laughter, surprises, and moments that felt too big to fully process all at once.
Marian slowly eased herself onto the bed, adjusting carefully. At this stage of her pregnancy, there was only one comfortable position left—on her side, supported by pillows Daniel had arranged almost perfectly over the months.
Daniel followed, turning off the light before sliding in behind her.
Without a word, he wrapped an arm around her, pulling her gently against his chest.
Careful.
Protective.
Familiar.
His hand
