A Father's Promise and a Mother's Secret

Hazel's POV

The early morning sunlight streamed through my bedroom curtains. I woke to find Liam already dressed, sitting on the edge of my bed watching me with those mesmerizing violet-blue eyes.

"Morning, beautiful." His deep voice sent shivers down my spine.

I pulled the sheet higher, suddenly self-conscious. "How long have you been awake?"

"Long enough to appreciate how peaceful you look when you sleep." He reached out to brush a strand of hair from my face. "Get dressed. I'm taking you and Leo to daycare today."

I sat up, clutching the sheet. "That's not necessary—"

"It wasn't a request, Hazel." His tone was gentle but firm. "I want to be part of your morning routine."

Before I could argue, Leo's excited voice called from the hallway. "Mommy, I'm hungry!"

My son appeared in the doorway, his stuffed dinosaur tucked under one arm. His eyes lit up when he spotted Liam.

"Daddy! You're still here!"