Annnabelle
Sunlight filters through the curtains, painting golden stripes across Nolan's sleeping form. I watch the rise and fall of his chest, the relaxed curve of his mouth, and wonder how I got so lucky. Last night still feels like a dream, but the pleasant ache in my body confirms it was gloriously real.
A soft noise from down the hall catches my attention,Ashlynn must be awake. I slip out of bed carefully, borrowing one of Nolan's t-shirts. It falls to mid-thigh, and I have a moment of self-consciousness before reminding myself that Ashlynn is only three. She won't think anything of it.
I pad quietly to her room, finding her sitting up in bed, rubbing her eyes.
"Anna?" She looks confused, her stuffed unicorn clutched to her chest. "Why are you here so early?"
I smile, perching on the edge of her big girl bed. "Just wanted to check on you, sweet pea. How are you feeling?"
She considers this seriously, then nods. "My throat doesn't hurt as much."