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

abruptly, ready to get out of bed. Atlas's hand shot out to stop

my Dad," I

with affection and warmth in his eyes. Maybe there was even a

We're in the hospital, remember? Watch your

let's get something straight first. 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 eat." I

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

Now, I was famished.

with me.

doctor says he might

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

I looked at him in astonishment, feeling

rubbed my abdomen. "You're pregnant. We're going

taken aback, staring at him in disbelief, stuttering,

leaving me unsure how to