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Concern instantly replaced Alex's yearning. " Is everything okay? You sound a little off "

Ava sighed softly. " I'm just feeling a bit tired today, that's all "

" I wish I was there with you " Alex confessed, his voice laden with longing. " I miss you, Ava. I miss seeing you, holding you "

A bittersweet silence hung in the air for a moment before Ava spoke again. " I miss you too, Alex. The baby's been kicking a lot lately. It's like our little one knows you're not here "

A warm smile tugged at Alex's lips at the thought. " I wish I could feel it too. Can you put the phone near your belly? Maybe I can hear something "

A soft chuckle escaped Ava as she adjusted the phone. " Alright, little one, say hi to Daddy "

For a fleeting moment, amidst the static on the line, Alex thought he could hear a faint rustling sound, as if the baby responded to his voice. His heart swelled with emotion.

" Thank you, Ava " Alex said softly. " I needed this. I'll be home as soon as I can, okay? "

" I'll be