The morning light slipped gently across the new house as Ava padded downstairs, one hand instinctively resting against her still-flat belly. Though it had been only a short while since they learned about the pregnancy, everything had already begun to feel different. There was a sense of softness in the way she moved, a sense of purpose in every breath.
She found Dominic in the kitchen, sleeves rolled up as he whisked pancake batter. The warm, familiar scent of butter and coffee filled the air.
“You’re up early,” she teased, leaning against the doorway to admire him.
Dominic glanced up, his dark eyes lighting with that quiet intensity that never failed to make her knees feel a touch weaker. “I thought I’d make breakfast,” he replied. “Something special before we tackle the nursery plans.”
Ava crossed the room and kissed him on the cheek. “Mmm, this looks like a delicious way to start.”
He grinned and slid an arm around her waist, pulling her close for a lingering kiss. “And you’re
