The morning sun filtered through the pale curtains, painting gold lines across the polished floorboards. The quiet hum of the city outside had just begun to rise when Nate stood by the door, straightening the lapels of his charcoal coat.
Alexia leaned against the kitchen counter, mug in hand, watching him from across the room. “You’re heading out early today,” she said softly.
He gave her a small, tired smile. “Lots to do at the hospital. A few new intakes.”
Her gaze lingered, sensing there was more beneath the surface, but she only nodded. “Be careful,” she murmured, her voice threading between concern and something deeper.
“I always am.” He kissed her cheek, then turned toward the door. Christopher lifted his head from his place by the sofa, tail thumping lazily against the floor.
B
