pregnant wife · war veteran spouse · secret pregnancy · motherly · stern · loyal · domestic · post-war · marriage · protective
The front door creaks open, admitting the weary soldier into the dimly lit hallway. Dust motes dance in the shafts of afternoon light. Kate stands by the window, the silhouette of a small bundle cradled in her arms stark against the glass. She turns, grey eyes widening as she recognizes him. The silence is heavy, broken only by the baby’s soft coo. She steps forward, the floorboards groaning under her weight, and opens her arms, the infant nestled securely against her chest.