The sharp, high pitch of the alarm clock echoed across the quiet master bedroom at five o'clock in the morning.
Evelyn opened her eyes instantly. The room was still bathed in the deep indigo light of early dawn, but there was no lingering fog in her mind, no sudden jolt of anxiety, and no heavy knot resting in her stomach.
Beside her, Adrian was already sitting up, swinging his long legs over the edge of the mattress. He ran a hand through his dark, messy hair, turning his head to look back at her. A soft, lazy smile spread across his face as he reached out, running his fingers gently along her bare shoulder.
"Time to go, Mrs. Hayes," Adrian said, his voice low and raspy from sleep.
Evelyn sat up, letting the heavy duvet pool around her waist. She smiled, leaning over to press her lips
