Chapter Six - Hannah
CHAPTER SIX
Hannah
THE KITCHEN WAS warm with the scent of garlic and butter, the slow simmer of sauce filling the space with comfort. Hannah stirred the pot lazily, swaying a little to the music playing from the speaker on the counter. A low jazz playlist, soft lighting, wine already poured. It was the kind of evening that made her feel settled, content.
She balanced her phone between her shoulder and ear, grinning as Mia’s voice came through the speaker.
“I still can’t believe you got Daniel into yoga,” Mia said, incredulous.
Hannah laughed, tossing a pinch of salt into the sauce. “I know! I’m kind of proud of him, honestly. He used to make fun of me, and now he’s been going after work a couple of times a week.”
Mia snorted. “Next thing you know, he’ll be drinking green juice and talking about his chakras.”
“Oh God, one step at a time,” Hannah teased, smiling to herself. But the truth was, it made her happy—really happy— that Daniel had embraced something she loved. That he was investing in himself, in his body, something just for him.
She glanced at the time on the stove.
He should be home soon.
“Well,” Mia sighed, “I should go. But text me if your newly enlightened husband comes home levitating.”
Hannah laughed. “Will do.”
She hung up, setting her phone down and reaching for their plates. Everything was ready—pasta plated, salad tossed, fresh bread still warm. She lit a candle on the table, because why not? A cozy little weeknight dinner.
The front door unlocked, and she turned, smiling.
“Hey! Perfect timing—dinner’s ready.”
Daniel stepped inside, running a hand through his hair. “Hey.”
“Good class?” she asked, moving toward him.
He didn’t answer, instead just reached for her, pulling her in close. It caught her a little off guard—but she melted into him instantly.
He wrapped his arms around her, holding her tightly against his chest. He smelled like gym shampoo and body wash, fresh and familiar. She closed her eyes, resting her cheek against his shoulder, letting herself sink into the moment.
His face tucked into the crook of her neck, his breath warm against her skin. She felt him inhale, slow and deep, like he was breathing her in.
“I love you,” she murmured, pressing her hands to his back.
Daniel exhaled, his arms tightening just slightly.
Her heart swelled. Wrapped safely in Daniel’s arms was her favorite place to be,