How could we?

Chapter 71

**Next Day**

Fatima POV:

I wake up at 4 a.m., my internal clock pulling me into the quiet stillness of the early morning. Without Mani here, I'm reminded that my usual morning routine now has gaps that I need to fill. I slip out of bed, careful not to disturb Zac, and make my way to the lounge area. I roll out my yoga mat, breathing in deeply as I begin my flow. The gentle stretches feel good, and I take my time with each movement, letting the morning calm seep into my bones.

Once I finish, I make my way toward the bathroom, moving quietly to avoid waking Zac. He looks so peaceful, and I'm not ready to break that serenity just yet. I close the bathroom door softly, turn on the shower, and let the warm water relax me even further. There's something about this time of day, the moments before anyone else is awake, that makes me feel grounded, like I have the whole world to myself for a little while.

After my shower, I wrap myself in a cozy robe, taking my time as I apply lotion. The quietness of the house is comforting, and I savor it as I head to the kitchen. I put together some simple toast and a cup of tea, hoping that I can ease my hunger without feeling too queasy.

Even though I'm hungry, the thought of actually eating feels daunting. I hope it's not the morning sickness making a comeback. I take a tentative sip of my tea, letting the warmth settle me, and slowly nibble on the toast, wondering if I'll be able to keep it down. Lucky for me, I managed to!

As soon as I'm done eating, I head back upstairs, expecting to have to wake Zac up but I found him already in the shower. I started getting dressed, thinking to myself that I need to upgrade my wardrobe because I seem to have doubled in size AGAIN! By the time Zac steps out, I'm halfway through my makeup. He has a towel wrapped around his waist, smiling as he sees me at the mirror.

Zac: Good morning, beautiful.

He says, coming over to plant a warm kiss on my cheek. I turn, catching his lips with mine.

Fatima: Good morning babe, did you sleep well?

Zac: Like a baby!

His smile widens as he leans in, his arms wrapping around me from behind.

Zac: You're looking as stunning as ever, you know that?

He whispers, his gaze meeting mine in the mirror. I smile, nudging him with my elbow.

Fatima: You're biased, but I'll take it.

I finish with my mascara, then glance down at my outfit with a sigh.

Fatima: Think it's time for some shopping—this belly is making my wardrobe work overtime.

Zac chuckles, squeezing my shoulders.

Zac: Let's go on Thursday, my schedule is pretty clear on that day. We can pick out some things for you...and maybe even a few things for the babies while we're at it.

Fatima: That sounds exciting, I can't wait!

Zac proceeds to get dressed and I unclip my hair, putting the finishing touches to my look.

Fatima: (giving Zac a kiss) I'm going down to pack my work bag, do you want some coffee?

Zac: I would love some, thanks babe.

I went downstairs to his office, where I'd left my laptop and a few documents on Friday night. The morning light filters through the blinds, casting soft shadows across the desk. I move toward the desk, gathering my things with careful attention. I know today's going to be a busy one, and the last thing I need is to forget anything. My laptop, check. Documents? Check. But as I go to place everything neatly into my bag, it hits me—I have no idea where my phone is.