Gerald’s POV
I woke slowly, reluctantly, pulled from sleep by the warmth pressed against my chest.
For a confused moment, I didn’t remember where I was or who I was holding. I thought it was a dream. I didn’t move. I barely breathed. I was scared that if I did, whatever this was would vanish.
Then I remembered.
Erica.
My wife.
Curled against me in our bed.
Her head rested on my arm, her body pressed close like she belonged there. Her breathing was slow and steady, peaceful. She looked safe. Very comfortable..
I’d forgotten what this felt like.
Waking up next to someone. Feeling their warmth. Hearing their breath. The simple intimacy of sharing space with another person.
For five years, my mornings had been cold. Quiet. Empty. I told myself I liked it that way. That it was easier
