Maya carried Layrus into her apartment, the soft weight of her newborn son pressing against her chest. The neighbours peeked in one by one, murmuring congratulations and cooing over the baby. Maya smiled faintly, her exhaustion hidden behind gentle nods.Damein had arranged everything: groceries, baby clothes, a new crib. His efficiency left her space to breathe.
Once the last box was unpacked, he kissed Layrus's forehead and said, "I have to go back to work. You've got this, Maya."
Maya watched him leave, her mind racing. She placed Layrus in the cradle, staring down at his sleeping face.
Pulling out her phone, she called her parents. The video call connected immediately. Her mother's face lit up with pure joy, tears welling in her eyes.
"Oh, my little Layrus! I can't wait to hold him,
