Chapter 116

• The early morning light streamed through the half-closed curtains, gently illuminating the room where Ace and his pregnant girlfriend lay tangled in each other's limbs, still fast asleep. As the distant sound of the 6AM alarm began to pierce the tranquillity, Ace stirred, his eyes fluttering open.
• Rubbing the sleep from his eyes, Ace stretched out his hand towards the bedside table, his fingers fumbling slightly before finding the small, intrusive device. With a soft click, he silenced the insistent beeping, its echo quickly dissipating into the hushed stillness of the room.
• Turning his gaze towards his girlfriend, he watched her sleep with a tender smile playing on his lips. The morning sun cast a delicate glow on her peaceful face, accentuating the gentle curve of her round belly. A surge of love washed over Ace as he marvelled at the miracle growing within her. Feeling a warmth enveloping his heart, he reached out to gently stroke her cheek, taking care not to disturb her restful slumber.