Scarlett's eyes fluttered open, drawn by the sounds of chattering and footsteps as other survivors prepared for the day. She blinked, adjusting to the soft, warm glow of sunlight streaming through the church's stained glass windows. The aroma of cooking food wafted through the air, and her stomach grumbled in response.
Beside her, Jaden and Golden stirred, rubbing the sleep from their eyes. They blinked up at Scarlett, smiling with sleepy contentment.
"Good morning, miss," Golden whispered, a gentle smile lighting up her face.
"Good morning, sweetie," Scarlett replied, hugging them both tightly. "How was your night?"
"It was good," they replied in unison, their voices soft yet filled with warmth.
Hope's gentle cooing drifted through the air, drawing Scarlett's attention. She lifted the baby from her crib, smiling down at her, but her smile faltered as she looked around, noticing the absence of the others.
