Navigating The Storm

Maya smiled faintly at Carina's affectionate gesture. She closed her eyes and leaned back against the pillows, feeling the exhaustion and emotions of the day starting to weigh on her.
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Week 4 Day 1
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Carina watched as Maya's breathing began to even out, a sign that she was already on the verge of sleep. She knew how much this day had taken out of Maya, both physically and emotionally. So, she decided to make her return brief and quick.

Carina quietly tiptoed out of the room, carefully closing the door behind her. She made her way to the kitchen, where her mamma and nonna were still sitting, chatting and sipping wine.

As Carina approached the kitchen, she found the rest of her family present, chatting and enjoying each other's company. Her best friend had already left for the evening.

Carina greeted her family with a warm smile, and her mother, Lucia, immediately noticed her expression. "You look troubled, Cara. Is everything okay with Maya?"

Carina sighed softly, her concern for Maya still lingering. "No, not exactly. She's feeling very tired and a bit down. Plus, the pregnancy hormones are making her a little insecure. I just put her to bed."

Her nonna, Stella, chimed in with a sympathetic tone. "Ah, the early stages of pregnancy can be tough, especially when it comes to emotions. It's normal for her to feel a little vulnerable and insecure. Just make sure you reassure her and be patient, Cara."

Carina nodded, grateful for the advice. "I know, Nonna. I've reassured her that she's the one I love and that there's nothing to worry about. But sometimes, those insecurities can be hard for her to shake off."

Her mother, Lucia, gave Carina a comforting pat on the shoulder. "You're doing the right thing, Cara. Just keep reminding her that she's the one you chose to spend your life with and that you love her dearly. She'll come around once the pregnancy hormones stabilize a bit."

Carina smiled, her heart feeling a bit lighter. "I will, Mamma. I just want her to feel secure and loved. I know the pregnancy isn't making things easier on her."

Her nonna chimed in again, a slight smirk on her lips. "Ah, but the mood swings and insecurities are part of the package. Just wait until the nesting phase starts, then you'll have your hands full."

Carina chuckled softly at her nonna's words. "I know, Nonna. I've heard about the mood swings and the nesting phase. I'm bracing myself for it, but it's all worth it for our little one."

As the conversation continued, Carina noticed the time and realized how late it was getting. She excused herself from her family, letting them know she was going to check on Maya again.

Carina quietly made her way to her childhood bedroom once more, carefully opening the door. She entered the room silently, not wanting to wake Maya if she was already asleep.

Maya looked up. "We need to talk Carina."

Carina's heart skipped a beat at Maya's serious tone. "Okay, we can talk. What's on your mind, Bambina?"

Maya looked at Carina. "When Gabriella was here you didn't even try to stop her from touching your thigh."

Carina's expression softened, understanding the root of Maya's jealousy. "I understand why you might feel that way. But you have to remember that Gabriella and I have been friends since childhood. Her flirty banter is just part of her personality. It doesn't mean anything more than that."

Maya's frustration boiled over, and her voice trembled with emotion. "I don't care if it's part of her personality! I don't like seeing her touch you like that. It's disrespectful to me and our marriage. Why can't you just set boundaries with her?"