I woke up to the soft chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves outside. The sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow in the room. My arms were still wrapped around her, holding her close like I always do. She’s my teddy bear, and I couldn’t help but want to cuddle her all morning.

I felt her stir beside me. She glanced at the clock and tensed up, probably realizing we were late for work. I smiled, thinking about how we first met at the café my parents owned. I was just a waitress, and she was this quiet, sweet woman who always came in for coffee. I never expected we’d end up here, four years together and living under the same roof.

Back then, she was shy and always so careful with her words. I loved how she took her time, how thoughtful she was in everything she did. I used to watch her from behind the counter, quietly falling for her little by little.

Now, as I felt her try to pull away this morning, I couldn’t bear to let her go. I tightened my arms around her, pulling her back toward me.

“Don’t leave,” *I whispered softly, my voice still groggy with sleep. I didn’t want to start the day without holding her just a little longer. *

I remembered how our first date felt like walking on air, how we spent hours laughing and talking. We built this life together, and even with the work waiting, I wanted to savor every moment with her. I could feel her body relax back into mine, and I smiled. Even if we were late, I wasn’t ready to let her go just yet.