The nursery had become my favorite place on the entire island.

I spent long afternoons there now, sitting in the rocking chair with my hands gently resting on my belly. The baby had become more active lately strong, steady kicks that made my breath catch every time. Each movement felt like a quiet promise. A reminder that life was moving forward, whether I was ready or not.

Daddy found me there again as the sun began to set. He leaned against the doorframe for a moment, watching me with that soft, intense look he’d been giving me more often lately. Then he crossed the room and knelt in front of...