Le's Soldier

Part 66

Morning came softer this time.

No panic. No rushing. Just quiet light spilling through the curtains and Leah breathing steadily beside her.

Lilly woke first again — she always did now.

Her eyes went straight to Leah.

Still asleep. Peaceful. One hand resting over her stomach.

Lilly stayed still for a second... just watching.

Then gently, carefully, she slid her hand over Leah's — covering it.

There.

Grounded.

Safe.

⸻

Late Morning

Leah woke slowly, stretching slightly before immediately pausing.

"...okay," she whispered to herself.

Lilly was already watching. "Okay?"

"No nausea yet."

"Yet," Lilly repeated.

"Don't jinx it."

Lilly smirked slightly. "Get up slowly."

Leah sat up carefully, waiting.

Still okay.

She looked at Lilly like she'd just won something. "I might actually eat today."

"Don't push it."

"I won't."

⸻

Kitchen – Small Wins

Leah stood at the counter while Lilly made breakfast.

"Toast again?" Leah asked.

"Yes."

"You're predictable."

"You're difficult."

Leah smiled faintly. "Fair."

She took a bite.

Paused.

Waited.

Swallowed.

"...that stayed down."

Lilly relaxed slightly. "Good."

Leah took another bite, slower this time.

"I feel... normal," she said quietly.

"Don't push it," Lilly repeated.

"I'm not."

But there was a small spark in her eyes again.

⸻

Midday – Getting Out

"I want to go outside," Leah said.

Lilly looked up instantly. "Where?"

"Just a walk. Nothing big."

"You sure?"

"Yes."

Lilly studied her for a second... then nodded. "Alright. Slow."

⸻

They walked through the park near their house — not the countryside, but still green enough. Trees, quiet paths, a few people passing by.

Leah held Lilly's hand tightly.

"You're gripping me," Lilly muttered.

"I'm making sure you don't run off."

"I'm not going anywhere."