I held Ela close as she slept beside me. I didn't sleep, but it was nice to hold on to her while she did. She snored a little, making my stomach flutter at the sound. This was one of the many things I didn’t think I would get to experience a few days ago. Others included her amazing voice and smile, her laugh, her iconic eye roll, and how her mouth twitched when fascinated. I got the chance to hold her once again, and this was a gift in itself.

I leaned in and kissed her shoulder, releasing a contented sigh. She'd never know just how lucky I considered myself...