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 fresh morning air was filled with the fragrance of the sea as we exited the house. The California sun was pleasant yet not overwhelming, an ideal mix of fresh breezes and radiant warmth.

When I finally reached the...