After putting the twins to bed in their own rooms, Emily returned to the master bedroom. The familiar scent of lavender filled the air, stirring a whirlwind of memories she had shared with Alex—intimate moments, heated arguments, joy, and sorrow. Alex had left after dinner and hadn't returned until now. Remembering his words about staying in the study earlier, Emily didn't think much of it and headed into the bathroom to get ready for bed.
She stepped into the shower, and the day she discovered her pregnancy came rushing back. Standing under the steaming water, she felt the same wave of helplessness and sadness she had felt back then, as if it had all happened just yesterday. She soaked her hair and face, trying to wash away the memories. She lingered in the shower until the heat made her feel lightheaded. Stepping out, she wrapped a towel around herself, her long hair dripping water down her back.
