The sun set, painting the sky with golden hues as Ariella sat on the balcony of their new home, her hand resting softly on her round belly.
For the first time in years, there was no war to face.
No enemies hiding in the dark. No fear of waking up in a world that wished to erase her.
She was finally free.
Yet, freedom brought its own set of challenges.
A future she had never dared to envision was now unfolding, and despite her fight for this peace, she felt uncertain about how to embrace it.
Leo stepped outside, his warmth enveloping her. He leaned against the railing, observing her. "You seem quiet."
Ariella smiled. "Since when do you mind that?"
Leo sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Since I realized that when you're quiet, you're deep in thought."
Ariella laughed softly but didn't argue.
Leo knelt beside her, his hands gently resting on her belly. "Share your thoughts."
Ariella took a breath, her fingers gliding over his. "I don't know how to stop fighting."
