The next morning dawned bright and clear. Blake woke early, careful not to disturb Rose as he slipped out of bed. He padded quietly to the kitchen, intent on surprising his family with breakfast.
As he cracked eggs into a bowl, Blake couldn't shake a nagging feeling of unease. Everything seemed perfect - too perfect, perhaps. He shook his head, trying to dispel the thought. They had been through so much; surely they deserved this peace.
The sound of small feet pattering down the hallway brought a smile to his face. Celena burst into the kitchen, her dark curls wild from sleep.
"Daddy!" she exclaimed, throwing herself into his arms.
Blake scooped her up, planting a kiss on her forehead. "Good morning, sunshine. Want to help me make pancakes?"
Celena nodded eagerly, and soon they were working side by side, the kitchen filled with the warm scent of cooking and the sound of their laughter.
