I stood on my balcony, leaning against the railing and gazing at the ocean stretching out before me. The crisp morning breeze caressed my skin, carrying the scent of salt and freedom. My hand absently rested on my still-flat stomach, a gesture that had become second nature since learning I carried Landon's child.
A flutter of black wings caught my attention. I smiled as a familiar raven landed on the stone balustrade beside me. It was the same one that had been visiting me for days now.
"Hello again, Nana," I whispered, the nickname slipping out naturally. Something about this bird reminded me of my old caretaker—wise, watchful, protective.
The raven stared at me with unusual intensity, its head tilting as its eyes fixed on my hand resting over my womb. A strange uneasiness washed over me. Could birds sense pregnancy? This one seemed almost... concerned.
"It's okay," I assured the creature, feeling slightly foolish for talking to a bird. "The baby's fine."
