35. Moments Taken

In a moment, I felt Arik pull me close and embrace me tightly.

"Hush now, Celeste. It's not your fault. Stop blaming yourself for things you couldn't even control," he reassured me as he gently kissed my head.

I allowed myself to rest on his chest. I could feel his body heat, the trembling of his hands, and the rise and fall of his chest due to his deep breaths.

"I can't say I understand everything, but I know how you suffered alone, and that's enough for me. I'm here now. I won't let you and our child be far away from me."

We remained silent for a few minutes until I remembered the conversation I had with Mom earlier. I looked up at him. His eyes were closed, and his forehead was wrinkled.

"Arik..."

"Hmm?" He groaned without opening his eyes, making me smile.

"Where will we live?"

Suddenly, he opened his eyes and looked at me with those expressive eyes.

"What?"

"I said, where will we live?"