Chapter 6

Sarah stumbled into her apartment in the early hours of the morning, her exhaustion evident in the heavy bags under her eyes and the weariness etched across her face. 

She closed the door behind her, the sound echoing through the stillness of the space. As she made her way further into the room, she spotted Maggie sitting on the couch, a dim light casting a soft glow around her.

Sarah approached cautiously, her voice gentle. "Hello there," she said lightly, a glimmer of concern in her eyes.

Maggie looked up, her gaze meeting Sarah's. "Hello Sarah," she replied, her voice subdued yet welcoming. 

"Why are you still awake?" Sarah asked

"I guess I just wasn't sleepy yet," Maggie admitted, her voice trailing off.

Sarah sighed, concern washing over her as she took in the scene before her. Luke and Leah were fast asleep, their bodies curled up on either side of Maggie, seeking comfort in her presence. 

"Maggie, you should be resting too," Sarah said gently, stepping closer to the couch.

Maggie's gaze softened, her weariness becoming more apparent as the weight of the situation settled upon her. "I know," she whispered, her voice laced with fatigue. "I just... couldn't sleep."

Sarah sat down beside Maggie, their shoulders barely touching. 

"Listen, I know you have been through a lot," she said softly. "Why don't we get some rest now? We can talk about everything in the morning when we're both refreshed."

Maggie glanced at Sarah, gratitude shining in her eyes. "Alright," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. 

With newfound resolve, Maggie gently scooped Leah into her arms, cradling her carefully. 

Sarah mirrored her actions, scooping Luke into her own arms. Together, they made their way towards the guest bedroom, its pristine appearance almost suggesting that someone had prepared it for their arrival.

They entered the room, placing Luke and Leah onto the comfortable bed. As Maggie tucked Leah in, and Sarah gently laid Luke down.

Maggie turned to Sarah, a soft smile gracing her lips. "Thank you, Sarah," she said, her voice filled with gratitude. "For everything."

Sarah returned the smile, her exhaustion momentarily forgotten. 

"No need to thank me," she said, her voice warm and reassuring. "We're friends, Maggie. That's what we do for each other."

With that, they bid each other goodnight, closing the door to the room.

Maggie tossed and turned in the guest bedroom, her mind consumed by a whirlwind of worry and fear. 

She couldn't shake off the nagging thoughts of what might be going through Raphael’s head at that very moment. 

As the hours ticked by, the weight of her concerns seemed to grow heavier. Had he discovered where she lived? Had he followed her and the kids to Sarah's place? What were his intentions, especially when it came to Luke and Leah, their beloved children? The questions circled endlessly in Maggie's mind, refusing to relent.

Unable to find solace in sleep, Maggie sat on the edge of the bed, her hands trembling slightly. She glanced at the clock on the nightstand, its glowing numbers indicating the passing time.

The night had slipped away, the darkness giving way to the first hints of dawn.

She clasped her hands together tightly, as if seeking comfort from within. 

Maggie pressed her trembling hands to her temples, trying to calm the storm of thoughts raging within her. She took slow, deep breaths, attempting to ground herself in the present moment. But the fear remained, stubborn and unyielding.

As the early morning light filtered through the window, casting a soft glow in the room, Maggie's exhaustion caught up with her. The restless night had taken its toll, and despite her best efforts, fatigue washed over her like a wave.

In the midst of her worrying thoughts, Maggie's eyelids grew heavy, and her head began to droop. Her mind, exhausted from the relentless cycle of anxiety, succumbed to sleep. She slumped back onto the bed.

As the morning light filled the apartment, casting a warm glow, Maggie woke up to the delightful scent of toast and eggs wafting through the air. 

She stretched her limbs and yawned, feeling a glimmer of relief wash over her. The night's rest, although disrupted by her worries, had brought a measure of rejuvenation.

Stepping out of the guest bedroom, Maggie entered the common area and saw Sarah expertly manoeuvring around the kitchen, tending to the breakfast preparations. The sight brought a grateful smile to Maggie's lips. It was evident that Sarah had done this countless times.

Sarah raised her head and caught sight of Maggie approaching. A warm smile spread across her face.

“Good morning," she greeted cheerfully. "I hope the bed was comfortable for you and the kids."

Maggie returned the smile, her appreciation shining in her eyes. 

"Good morning. It was perfect," she replied sincerely. 

Sarah gestured towards the dining area, where a beautifully set table awaited them. 

"Why don't you wash up with the kids and come meet me here for breakfast before it goes cold, eh?" she suggested, her tone inviting and friendly.

Maggie nodded, feeling a sense of warmth enveloping her. 

"Thanks," she replied, her voice filled with gratitude. She turned and headed back to the bedroom, knowing that she needed to get herself and the kids ready for the day.

In the bedroom, Maggie gently roused Luke and Leah from their slumber, their sleepy eyes blinking in the morning light. She smiled down at them, her heart overflowing with love. 

"Good morning, my sweethearts," she greeted softly.

Luke rubbed his eyes and yawned, while Leah snuggled closer to her mother. 

"Morning, Mommy," Luke mumbled, his voice still heavy with sleep.

Maggie gathered their clothes and helped them change, the morning routine bringing a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos of their circumstances. She guided them to the bathroom, ensuring they were clean and presentable for the day ahead.

As they finished getting ready, Maggie led Luke and Leah back to the common area, their small hands clutching hers tightly. The tantalizing aroma of breakfast grew stronger, enticing their senses.

They approached the table, where Sarah had arranged a delicious spread of eggs, toast, and fresh fruits. The inviting scene made Maggie's stomach rumble.

Sarah looked up from the stove as they approached, a warm smile gracing her lips.

 "Good morning, sleepyheads," she greeted affectionately.

"Good morning, Sarah," Luke and Leah chimed in unison, their voices filled with excitement.

Maggie pulled out a chair for each of the children, helping them settle into their seats. 

Sarah joined them at the table, pouring glasses of freshly squeezed orange juice for everyone. 

With a smile, Maggie picked up her fork and began to eat.

While they were already halfway through their breakfast, Sarah asked Maggie. 

“So what’s up” her eyes fixed on Maggie.