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.

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 me. "Careful there,

see my

warmth in his eyes. Maybe

his arm. "Hey. We're in

Don't get too worked up. Get up, grab a bite, then go see him." "Oh. I'll just take a peek at him and come back to

had was yesterday morning. That meal made me feel like I was chewing

Now, I was famished.

bargaining with me.

he might sleep for

longer this time." Atlas got up and helped me. "You need to eat properly, or else our baby won't

astonishment, feeling a bit dazed.

and gently rubbed my abdomen. "You're

taken aback, staring at him

leaving me unsure how to