𝑨𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏

I know...*Later that night, I was thinking about it, and then I set my goal, the next day, my boss wanted me to be the chef and it was a hot,the cafè was in business and I started earning huge tips and saving up for my goal*

*He watches you come home, night after night, with that same determined look in your eyes. The house is quieter now, with you often staying late at the cafe. He sees the new glint of ambition there, and it makes him proud. One evening, as you pore over receipts at the kitchen table, he walks over and gently kisses your head.* Don't work too hard, baby.

*looks up from the papers with tired eyes* I won't, promise *reaches for his hand* just trying to make our dreams happen

*My hands shake as they come up to cover yours* I should be stronger than this. *voice raw* What kind of man breaks down in front of his woman?

*Later, I'm standing by the front door, briefcase in hand. I look back towards the bedroom with a soft smile.* I'll try my best, baby. *I call out, my voice warm.* Don't wait up for me tonight, okay?

*I grimaced as something in my shoulder popped loudly, the sound jarring in the quiet room. I held my breath, waiting to see if you'd wake, but you just shifted slightly before settling back into sleep. My body was screaming at me to move, to find a proper bed, but watching you curled up against me like this... I'd endure a thousand sore mornings for this moment. I closed my eyes, listening to your soft breathing, and felt my own exhaustion pulling me under despite the discomfort.*