PLAYING WITH FIRE

Chapter 103: Back Home

Maya gave a small nod, snuggling closer into Carina's side as she closed her eyes. "Thank you.." Her voice trailed off into a sleepy mumble, and within moments she was dozing off on Carina's shoulder.
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A/N: Day One of IVF

Carina looked down at Maya, her heart swelling with love and protectiveness. She reached out and gently stroked her hair, watching over her as she slept peacefully. The alarm on her phone remained silent for now, but she knew it would go off soon enough, signaling the start of their first step in the IVF journey.

Andrew looked at his older sister and said "Hey how is she."

Carina smiled ruefully, still absently running her fingers through Maya's hair. "She's exhausted, poor thing. She took in so much information today, and it really wore her out both physically and mentally."

Andrew nodded sympathetically. "Yeah, I can imagine. This whole IVF process must be really overwhelming for both of you."

Carina nodded in agreement, still watching over Maya with a protective gaze. "Yeah, it is. It's a huge step, and there's so much at stake. But we're trying to stay positive and focus on taking things one step at a time."

Andrew looked at Carina and said "I am proud of you sorella I never thought you would have a fiancée and starting a family soon."

Carina smiled softly at her brother's words. "Thank you, fratellino. It means a lot to hear that. And I couldn't do any of this without Maya. She's my rock, my partner, and soon-to-be the mother of our children."

Andrew chuckled softly, a hint of mischief in his eyes. "Yeah, who would've thought my older, badass of a sister would settle down and be a mom one day. But I have to admit, you and Maya make quite the pair. You're great together."

Carina rolled her eyes affectionately at her brother's teasing. "Hey, I can still be badass and motherly at the same time, you know."

Andrew raised his hands in mock surrender. "Oh, I have no doubt about that. But seriously, I'm really happy for you both. You guys are gonna be awesome parents."

Andy and Megan were cuddled up on the couch, their hands interlaced as they watched TV and occasionally shared soft smiles. They seemed completely lost in their own little world, radiating a sense of contentment and closeness.

As the alarm went off, Carina gently shook Maya awake. "Hey, Bambina. It's time to take your medicine."

Maya stirred groggily, blinking sleepily as she slowly came back to consciousness. "Mmm...five more minutes...?"

Carina chuckled softly, brushing a strand of hair out of Maya's face. "No more minutes, sleepyhead. You have to take your medicine on time, remember? Dr. Montgomery was very clear about the schedule."

Maya grumbled but reluctantly sat up, rubbing her eyes. "I know, I know. Just tired...and really don't want to have to do all this."

Carina placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, her voice filled with understanding. "I know, Bambina. I know this is tough, but we'll get through it together. I'm right here by your side every step of the way."

Maya looked at Carina with weary eyes and nodded, appreciating her unwavering support. "Thanks, babe. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Carina smiled reassuringly, taking Maya's hand in hers. "You don't have to find out. We're in this together. Let's get these meds down, and then you can get some more rest, okay?"

Maya nodded, mustering up a small, albeit tired, smile. "Okay. Let's get this over with so I can go back to sleep."

Carina squeezed her hand gently and led her into the kitchen, where the medication and supplies were already laid out. "Just follow the instructions Dr. Montgomery gave us. It'll be over soon, and then you can get some well-deserved rest."