Amber
The air felt heavier than usual this morning.
I’d barely slept, caught between nerves and the ache behind my ribs that always came when Evalie clung to me in her sleep. Her tiny hand still rested over my stomach as I lay there for a moment longer, memorizing the shape of her breathing.
Today, everything could change.
I slipped out of bed carefully, tucking the blanket around her. Her blond curls splayed against the pillow, the same soft shade as Rayne’s. I pushed the thought away.
The house was already buzzing. I could hear Ichika clinking something in the kitchen—probably forcing Ken to eat breakfast even though his stomach was just as twisted as mine.
I went to the bathroom and stared at my reflection. I didn’t recognize the woman looking back. She looked…braver. Or maybe more resigned. I wasn’t sure which one I needed more.
By the time I stepped back into the bedroom, Evalie was sitting up, rubbing her eyes.
“Morning, pumpkin,” I said, keeping my voice light.
Evalie blinked,
