She saw him and blushed, a soft, delicate warmth that made his chest tighten. Without a word, she reached up and their lips met in a gentle, heartfelt kiss. The kind that carried months of worry, relief, and quiet love all at once.

"I want to go for a walk," she whispered, her hands holding his.

"It's risky, you just.... got up." he said immediately, concern furrowing his brow.

"I'm fine," she said, bouncing slightly. Her energy startled him at first, but she laughed, her joy contagious. ...