I'm awake.

In the blinding blackness, I sit up and glance in the direction of the alarm clock. The bright red numbers glaringly tell me it's 3:33 a.m. Work is only four short hours away. I know better than to drink a large glass of milk before bed. What was I thinking?!

Frustrated with myself and my bladder, I move to the side of the bed and set my feet on the slickness of the hardwood floor. I stand up and sleepily stumble towards the door. I am silently cursing my husband for unconsciously leaving his shoes directly in my path. Still slightly disoriented, I know I reach the bathroom when I feel the cold ceramic tile under my feet. Stepping further in, the moonlight from the window outlines the white stool.

After going to the bathroom, I head back to bed. I might as well catch a few more Z's if possible, I think to myself. As I lie back, the sheets are cool, almost cold, to my skin. I feel heat coming from my husband, as he lays on the other side of the bed. I roll over and snuggle up to his warmth. I close my eyes and quickly start to nod off.

I'm awake.

I realize my husband is on 3rd shift this week.

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