The morning light slipped quietly through the curtains as you woke to the soft hum of the house. It was still early enough that the kids had not begun their usual chorus of footsteps and giggles. Beside you, Bill was already awake, his arm resting loosely around your waist as he watched you with that gentle look he saved only for you.

“Good morning,” he whispered, his voice warm and still a little sleepy.

Life with Bill had never been loud or chaotic in the way people expected from someone who lived his life on screens and sets. At home, he was calm and thoughtful, moving through the world with an easy quietness. Your three children adored him, always climbing into his lap or grabbing his hands as if he were the safest place on earth.

You brushed a strand of hair from your forehead and tucked yourself closer. “What time is it?”

“Too early for the kids to be up,” he said softly. His fingers traced slow circles on your arm pulling you close.