Shattered Tears

Chapter One

Lizabeth lay nestled in the cocoon of her plush bed, ensconced within layers of soft blankets that provided a shield against the crisp, cool night air. The sheets and comforter were like a cloud, enveloping her in warmth and comfort. Outside, the stars twinkled and the moon cast a gentle glow through the curtains, creating a serene atmosphere. She felt safe and secure, wrapped up in her own little world.

The gentle hum of the air conditioner rang out like a soothing lullaby in the otherwise silent room. A soft, golden light radiated from the living room, casting flickering shadows against the walls and creating a cozy ambiance. In one corner stood their magnificent Christmas tree, adorned with twinkling lights and cherished ornaments that added to the warmth and joy of the room.

Each bauble held a special significance for the couple, representing their journey together. The small angel positioned at the very top of the tree emitted a soft glow in the midst of the glittering lights, symbolizing their first Christmas together as a couple. It brought back memories of their cozy apartment, where the wooden floors creaked under their feet and mismatched furniture filled with love and laughter made every moment feel like home. It may have been modest, but it was overflowing with love and countless cherished moments. As Lizabeth stared at the delicate glass star below it, she was transported back to their unforgettable honeymoon in Italy. She could still feel the warmth of the sun on her skin as they wandered through ancient streets hand in hand, becoming blissfully lost in each other and the enchanting city. And every evening, they would lay under the stars, gazing up in awe while holding each other close.

Conroy stirred beside her, his muscular frame shifting as he rolled onto his side. She felt his warm breath on her neck as his hand instinctively reached for her waist, a familiar gesture that always brought her comfort. When his eyes fluttered open, they were a deep, earthy brown that seemed to see straight into her soul. The same warmth and affection that had captivated her from the very beginning shone in their depths. His voice, a low rumble in the stillness of the night, reached her before his words did.

"Can't sleep?" he asked, his lips curving into a soft smile that melted her heart.

Lizabeth shook her head, turning to fully face the man she loved. She leaned into his embrace, finding solace in his familiar touch. "No," she whispered, tracing the line of his jaw with tender fingertips. His skin radiated warmth, anchoring her in the present moment. "I was just lost in thought."

"About what?" Conroy asked, gently caressing the back of her hand, sending a rush of warmth through her body that had nothing to do with the cozy blankets surrounding them.

"Everything," she replied with a soft smile, grateful for this quiet moment with him by her side.

Conroy tenderly caressed her face, his thumb gliding against her cheek with a soothing warmth that brought a sense of peace. She could feel the roughness of his skin, evidence of his hard work and dedication, complementing her own smoothness. Every movement exuded the immense love he had for her, as if she was the center of his universe.

He looked at her, his gaze unwavering, the depth of his affection written plainly across his face. 'You are my everything,' he said softly, and those words carried the weight of a thousand shared moments.

Lizabeth's heart swelled with overwhelming emotion at his words, her chest constricted with the love she felt for this man. "I feel the same," she choked out, tears welling in her eyes. "Even after all this time, being with you still feels like a beautiful dream."

They had weathered countless storms together - career changes, family feuds, and the heart-wrenching pain of trying to conceive. But in moments like this, when the world fell silent and it was just the two of them, those challenges seemed insignificant compared to the love they shared.