The past month had been nothing short of a whirlwind. Between Malachi's treatments, Joelle adjusting to life with more time at Roman's house, and Isabella rekindling things with Roman, time seemed to move both too fast and not fast enough.

Now, on a rare quiet morning, Isabella stood in the kitchen, flipping pancakes while the smell of coffee filled the air. She had spent the night at Roman's again-something that was happening more and more often-but today felt different.

Maybe it was because everything was starting to feel... normal.

She turned just as Roman walked into the kitchen, still shirtless, his sweatpants hanging low on his hips. His hair was pulled back into a messy bun, and he looked way too good for this early in the morning.

He smirked, catching her staring. "Damn, baby, you gonna burn breakfast lookin' at me like that."

She rolled her eyes, flipping a pancake onto the plate. "Don't flatter yourself."

He chuckled, stepping behind her and wrapping his arms around her waist. "Mmm, I'm feelin' pretty flattered." He pressed a slow kiss to the side of her neck.

She sighed, leaning back against him. "You keep that up, and we're gonna have to send the kids somewhere for the day."

He smirked. "Say the word, and I'll make it happen."

Before Isabella could respond, the sound of tiny feet padding across the floor interrupted them. Malachi appeared in the doorway, rubbing his eyes sleepily.

"Mommy? Daddy?" he mumbled. "I don't feel good."

Immediately, Isabella turned in Roman's arms, pressing the back of her hand against Malachi's forehead. He was warm-too warm.

Roman frowned, scooping Malachi up effortlessly. "Alright, little man, let's get you back in bed."

Isabella followed them into the living room, her heart tightening as she watched Roman carry their son upstairs. It was moments like this-seeing Roman so present, so involved-that reminded her just how far they'd come.

And how much she never wanted to lose this again.