The next day dawned with a gentle light that seeped through the curtains of our room, casting a warm glow over Riley's sleeping form beside me. I watched her for a moment, my heart swelling with affection and a determination that had solidified overnight. Today, I would show Riley just how much she meant to me, create a memory that would bind us even tighter before we returned to the harsh realities that awaited us.
As I quietly slipped out of bed, careful not to wake her, I began to plan the day in my mind. It needed to be perfect—an experience that would help Riley feel more at ease about the path we were on, and perhaps even convince her that, together, we could face whatever challenges lay ahead.
By the time Riley awoke, I had everything set in motion. She looked at me with sleepy eyes, a small smile curving her lips as I leaned down to kiss her forehead.
"Good morning, my love," I whispered. "I have something special planned for us today."
