<div style="text-align: justify;">While William thought of death, Catherine thought of life. Both her new life and the little life she carried inside. Knowing that she was about to enter motherhood - the most sublime mission in a woman's life, in her opinion - filled Catherine with joy. Not even the discomforts brought about by her condition could hinder her happiness. And just being here made her feel better already. While the house in London felt tight and suffocating, this new home felt like open spaces. <br/><br/>The young woman walked carefully up the stairs, making sure each step was firm before trusting her weight to it, and she was soon inside the room she would be calling hers for the next few months. Walking to the windows, she opened them to let the fresh air in, and then turned around to see the furniture. The room was very elegantly furnished. The bed had a canopy and seemed comfortable enough, there was a large armoire, and, at a secluded little area, a bath so she wouldn't have to keep going up and down the stairs to bathe, especially as she became heavier. There was also her desk, which she had requested as a place to read, write letters, and do some sketches when she had the time.<br/><br/>Sitting by her desk, Catherine checked to make sure she had everything she needed - paper, ink, quills, it was all accounted for. Her sketching materials were there to, much to her satisfaction. <br/><br/>Getting up, she examined the clothes in perfect order, and then sat on the bed, approving of it. Everything was just fine.<br/><br/>Walking back down the stairs, Catherine went to her husband and embraced him. "Thank you, love, the house is so lovely, and everything is in order", she murmured lovingly. "How many days do I have you for myself?". <br/><br/>The way Adam hesitated told Catherine she wouldn't like his answer. Still, she took a deep breath to brace herself and waited. The man seemed a bit embarrassed when he spoke. "Sadly, none, for now, Cathy. I must be back to London at once, as I have an important meeting tomorrow, right after breakfast".<br/><br/>Catherine's expression made her heartbreak clear. Still, she didn't complain. It wasn't in her nature to complain more than needed, and she had already been a bit of a hindrance at home, so it made sense that he would want to catch up on his work. "Very well", she replied simply, feeling tears burn in her eyes.<br/><br/>Adam sighed. "Don't be like this, Cathy", he replied to her words, his voice calm. "I will be back Saturday morning, and I will be yours up until Monday's tea time", he promised, already getting his hat and coat. <br/><br/>Adam's words seemed to appease his wife, and she went to walk him to the door, watching him leave in the carriage that had been waiting by the door. Once the door was closed, Catherine sighed and looked around, feeling lonely. It would be a long, long week...</div>