Laura
I was jolted awake by a soft knock on the door. For a moment, I blinked against the early morning sunlight streaming in through the curtains, wondering if I had imagined it. Then came another knock, firmer this time.
"Laura? It's me, can I come in? Arlene's voice called from the other side.
I groaned softly, pulling the blanket tighter around myself. My body felt heavy, exhaustion pulling at me from every limb. Morning sickness had become my unwelcome alarm clock, and I wasn't sure I could face another day of nausea, headaches, and the endless cycle of emotions.
"Come in," I croaked, my voice still hoarse from sleep. I went to bed late last night, I had been so preoccupied with thoughts. I kept thinking about Jake, myself and the baby.
