Blissful Moments Before Returning to Work

November 9, 1897

Newport, Amerathia

The sun had barely begun to rise when Matthew Hesh opened his eyes. He lay in bed, listening to the distant sound of waves crashing against the cliffs. For the first time in months, there was no gunfire, no urgent knocks on his door, no intelligence reports filled with death and destruction. Just peace.

Amber was still asleep beside him, Sophia curled up in her arms, breathing softly. Matthew smiled, brushing a stray strand of hair from Amber's face. He had missed this—missed waking up next to her, missed hearing the quiet rhythm of their home.

He gently slid out of bed, careful not to wake them, and stepped onto the balcony. The morning air was crisp, carrying the scent of salt and the faintest hint of autumn. Below, the vast Atlantic stretched endlessly, the water shimmering in the first light of dawn.

Behind him, the door creaked open.

"Daddy?"