Sunlight spilled through the sheer curtains, soft and golden, scattering across the wooden floor of our bedroom. I opened my eyes slowly, feeling the steady warmth of Julian’s arm draped across my waist. For the first time in years, there was no rush, no storm pressing on my chest, only a gentle calm that settled deep in my bones.

I turned slightly to look at him, the rise and fall of his breathing steady, serene. His hand found mine, fingers curling naturally around mine without any words. ...