Aliana’s POV

I awoke sensing… buoyancy. After a lengthy period, for the first time,

There was no feeling of imminent threat.

No gatherings to go to, no dangers hovering nearby.

Simply tranquility.

I stretched gently, my hands positioned on my bloated abdomen.

"Good morning, sweetheart," I whispered gently, making soft circles.

This is what I desired.

A new beginning.

What about today?

Today was merely another stride toward achieving that goal.

The ...