It was late when Silas finally returned home. Esme was fast asleep, her breathing soft and steady. Moving quietly, he approached the bed and bent down to kiss her forehead, which he did daily.
"Sweet dreams, baby," he whispered before disappearing into the bathroom.
After a quick shower, he slipped back into bed, wrapping an arm around Esme and resting his hand gently on her growing belly. He kissed the top of her head. "Good night, sweetheart."
Esme's lips curved as she placed her hand over his, her eyes still closed. "You are late again." Her voice, soft and drowsy, startled him.
Silas froze. He hadn't meant to disturb her slumber. "Sorry to wake you up."
Esme turned to face him, her eyes partially open. "I have been waiting for you."
Silas brushed her hair away from her forehead. "We can talk as much as we want tomorrow. For the next few days, it's just us – you and me – no work, no meetings."
