Daniel loved how peaceful things had become.
No arguments. No long emotional talks. No tension.
He mistook silence for maturity.
When Amara stopped complaining, he felt relieved. When she stopped asking questions, he felt trusted. When she stopped reaching for him, he assumed she was comfortable.
He didn't notice that she had begun turning inward.
That night, as he drifted off to sleep, Daniel smiled faintly.
Things were good.
Beside him, Amara stared into the dark, wide awake, her heart steady in a way that felt unfamiliar.
She wasn't angry.
She was preparing.