Kiara's POV

The soft light of dawn streamed through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the nursery. I blinked slowly, momentarily disoriented by the unfamiliarity of the room.

My baby’s room. I had fallen asleep here, cradled by the quiet and the gentle hum of the monitor on the shelf. The faint smell of baby powder lingered in the air, grounding me back into the moment.

I sat up, running a hand through my messy hair. I hadn’t intended to stay here last night, but I’d come in to look at my little girl, my precious daughter, and found myself making silent promises.

Promises to protect her. Promises to...