A few more months passed by, quiet and fast, like time had learned to walk softly around them.
It was winter now. Cold winds stayed outside, while warmth filled the hall.
Vivian and Charlotte were sitting in front of the fireplace. The fire crackled gently, painting the walls with a soft orange glow.
Charlotte sat on a cushion near the fire.
Her stomach was slightly big now, showing that she was about six months pregnant.
One hand rested on her belly without thinking, like it belonged there.
Vivian sat on the floor beside her. He leaned close, his eyes fixed on her stomach with pure focus.
From time to time, he pressed his ear against it, moving his head slowly from one side to the other, trying not to miss anything.
Right now, he was listening again. He waited. And waited.
Nothing.
He pulled back, rubbed his ear, and leaned in once more.
Still nothing. A small frown formed on his face as he said softly, "I think the baby is sleeping."
