#Chapter 279 – Part of the Family

I’m up first the next morning, but I decide to let Victor have a little more rest. I smile at him as I watch him sleep for a moment, wanting very much to reach out and rub my hand against the new stubble lining his jaw, but holding back. He’s been working so hard lately – he deserves this break as much as anyone. So, as carefully as I can, I peel myself out of the bed and head for the closet, changing quickly into some soft, casual clothing and then pulling my warm robe on over top of it, knotting it tightly around my waist. Then, moving slowly so the floors and door don’t creak, I duck out of the room and softly shut the door behind me. I’m eagerly thinking of my single cup of coffee as I start down the stairs. As much as I’m thrilled to be pregnant, I have to admit that I’m looking forward to the day when I can have my two morning cups and my two-o’clock refresher so that I’ve got – I stop at the landing of the stairs, my mind going blank as I glance into the living room and see