Beyond the Divorce

When I woke up, the sharp scent of hospital disinfectant filled my nose. Groggily turning over, I collided with a warm body. I quickly opened my eyes to find Atlas lying beside me. Staring at him in confusion, I struggled to grasp what was happening.

He looked at me with a tender smile and gently kissed me. "Good morning, sleepyhead. Are you finally awake?"

Still dazed, I mumbled, "What time is it?"

"It's 7," he replied softly.

"7?" I blinked, suddenly realizing it was evening. But why did it still seem like dawn outside?

"7 p.m.," Atlas clarified.

I gasped, glancing outside and then back at him.

"It's 7 p.m.? Then... where's Dad?" Uncertain, I asked, trying to make sense of it all.

"He woke up briefly, then dozed off again. The doctor says he's finally getting some real rest," Atlas informed me in a gentle tone.

through me. So, it was all real-my biological

surge of happiness, I sat up abruptly, ready to get out of bed. Atlas's hand shot out to stop

need to see my

with affection and warmth in his eyes.

arm. "Hey. We're in

let's get something straight first. Don't get too worked up. Get up, grab a bite, then go see him." "Oh. I'll

up starving, and the last meal I had was yesterday morning. That

Now, I was famished.

bargaining with me.

doctor says he might sleep

time." Atlas got up and helped me. "You need

at him in astonishment,

smiled brightly and gently rubbed my abdomen. "You're pregnant. We're going

aback, staring at

sudden, leaving me unsure how to