Morning didn’t arrive loudly.

It rarely did after nights that meant something.

The sky was pale when Amara opened her eyes.

Not fully bright.

Not dark anymore either.

That in-between hour where everything feels suspended.

Like the world is holding its breath.

She didn’t move immediately.

Just lay there, staring at the ceiling, letting consciousness return slowly.

Because she already knew.

Before thoughts formed.

Before memories lined themselves up clearly.

She knew something inside her had shifted.

It was subtle.

But undeniable.

The kind of change that doesn’t come with fireworks.

Just stillness.

And an unfamiliar sense of calm that feels almost suspicious.

She turned slightly onto her side, pulling...