Mystic Falls, Virginia — The Boarding House, Master Bedroom

6 weeks and 3 days pregnant — twins

The fire crackles low in the marble hearth, casting shadows that dance across the vaulted ceiling like old spirits. The room smells of cedar, aged whiskey, and him — that particular scent of sandalwood, rain, and something ancient I still can't name.

I'm standing at the tall window, watching the last of the evening light bleed out over the lawn. My reflection stares back at me — blue-green eyes catching the firelight, one hand pressed absently against my lower stomach.

A habit I've developed in the past few weeks. One I haven't told him about yet.

Behind me, the floorboard creaks.