I kiss her awake in the morning. It seems kinder than other ways. A little smile appears. Is it working? I ask.

The smile becomes a smirk. No. She replies. I leave to return later and try again.

She sleeps some more. I know that because I hear gentle snoring from the other side of the bedroom door.

And then I hear water moving through the pipes. She is alert . Getting cleaned up a bit.

The door opens. She is up. My heart leaps. It’s a new day. A new beginning with less sun than desired perhaps but bright nevertheless.

I smile and plan breakfast.