Another layer gone

Dahlia's POV

Day eleven of bed rest

I paused, my hand trembling slightly on the door handle as I opened it. The soft creak of the hinges was the only sound in the quiet space between us. As the door swung open fully, I saw Ares standing there just a few steps away. His tall figure nearly blocked out the sunlight, casting a gentle shadow over me. He was holding a large, fluffy teddy bear and several gift bags. My heart leapt at the sight, excitement bubbling inside me.

I gasped in surprise and delight. The gifts were unexpected, and seeing him there waiting for me made my heart swell. Without thinking, I grabbed the teddy bear and hugged it tightly against my chest. Looking up at Ares, I couldn’t hide the gratitude in my eyes.

“Thank you!” I said, my voice brimming with genuine happiness. My smile spread wide across my face.

Ares stood there, his usual stoic expression softening slightly. He seemed taken aback by my reaction, his eyes studying me as if he couldn’t quite believe what he