The sun was up, but the morning felt quiet—almost too quiet. I sat near the window, sipping warm tea, looking at the sky. Carson walked in slowly, holding a book in his hand.
“You’re awake early,” he said.
I nodded. “I couldn’t sleep much,” I replied. “I had so many things on my mind.”
He came closer and sat beside me.
“Still thinking about the names your father mentioned?” he asked softly.
“Yes,” I whispered. “I don’t even know who to trust anymore.”
Carson held my hand gently.
“We’ll figure it out,” he said. “One step at a time. But you don’t have to carry everything alone.”
I looked at him and gave a small smile. “I’m glad I have you,” I said.
He leaned closer and kissed the back of my hand.
“And you’ll always have me,” he replied.
---
Later that day, Fred came in holding a
