Rhythm of a New Life

The gentle morning light spilled through the half-drawn curtains, casting a soft glow over the nursery. Four tiny cribs were arranged in a perfect arc like they were crafted into the shape of a crescent moon. Each crib was customized, hand-painted with the names: Ava, Luna, Liam, and Thiago. The room smelled faintly of baby powder, eucalyptus oil, and freshly laundered cotton.

Tobi stood in the doorway, arms crossed loosely over his chest, wearing an old Arsenal training hoodie. He hadn't slept more than three hours in two days—but he didn't care. His eyes moved from one baby to the next, their delicate bodies rising and falling in perfect harmony. He smiled to himself. This was real. This was life. This was everything.

Behind him, Emilia appeared, barefoot and in one of his oversized tees, her hair bundled messily into a top knot. Her belly had finally receded, her frame slowly returning to normal, though she still moved with the cautious grace of a new mother.