Gabriel walked into the bedroom with Noah nestled in his arms. Moving with care, he laid his son in the cradle and rocked it gently until the baby's soft breaths evened out into slumber.
"Gabriel, did I take too long?" Amelie hurried in, her damp hair clinging to her shoulders, the faint scent of lavender bath oil trailing behind her. "I ended up soaking in the tub and lost track of time."
Gabriel turned his head toward her, lowering his voice so as not to disturb Noah. "It's alright. He's already asleep." Stepping closer, he slipped an arm around her and drew her against his chest. His breath brushed her ear as he murmured, "You deserve that time, Amelie. You brought our son into this world. Taking care of yourself is just as important."
She softened in his embrace, then looked up at him with a faint smile.
"Come," he said gently, guiding her to the bed. "Let me dry your hair."
"If you use the dryer, the sound might wake Noah," Amelie whispered, glancing at the cradle.
