Le's Soldier

Part 63

Morning came slowly.

Soft countryside light filtered through the curtains, birds faintly chirping outside, the quiet calm completely different from the chaos of the city. Leah stirred first, her face tucked into Lilly's chest, one hand resting between them.

Then her stomach rolled.

She groaned softly. "No..."

Lilly woke instantly. "Leah?"

"I feel sick."

Lilly sat up carefully, already reaching for the small bucket she'd placed beside the bed the night before. "Here."

Leah leaned forward, breathing slowly, eyes squeezed shut. It passed after a moment, just nausea — no throwing up this time. She leaned back again, exhausted.

"You okay?" Lilly asked softly.

Leah nodded weakly. "Just waves."

Lilly brushed her hair back. "Stay in bed. I'll make something plain."

Leah gave a tired smile. "Plain. Very plain."

"I know."

⸻

Slow Honeymoon Morning

Leah eventually shuffled into the kitchen wrapped in one of Lilly's hoodies. Her hair messy, face still pale, but calmer.

Lilly stood at the stove making toast.

"No spices," Leah warned immediately.

"It's toast."

"You never know with you."

Lilly smirked. "I'm not seasoning bread."

Leah sat at the table, watching her. "You'd try."

"I would not."

Leah took a small bite when Lilly set the plate down. She chewed slowly, then nodded. "Acceptable."

"High praise."

They ate quietly, soft spring sunlight filling the room. Leah's foot brushed Lilly's under the table, small and affectionate.

"What do you want to do today?" Lilly asked.

Leah leaned back. "Nothing... but also something."

"Helpful."

Leah smiled faintly. "Maybe a picnic? If I don't feel worse."

"Picnic it is."

⸻

Picnic in the Countryside

The hills behind the cottage were covered in wildflowers. Soft grass, scattered trees, a small stream nearby.

Lilly carried the basket. Leah walked slowly beside her, holding her hand.

"You're walking like an old woman," Lilly muttered gently.

"I feel like one."

They found a quiet spot under a tree. Lilly spread the blanket while Leah sat carefully, one hand on her stomach.

"What did you pack?" Leah asked.

"Sandwiches. Fruit. Plain crackers."

Leah nodded approvingly. "You're learning."

Lilly handed her a sandwich.

Leah took a bite — then immediately frowned. "What is that?"

"...cheese?"

"There's something else."

"...a tiny bit of pepper."

Leah glared. "Why would you do that?"