INT. JO AND LINK’S APARTMENT – MORNING

Soft morning light filters into the apartment.

The sound of quiet play drifts from the living room — Luna and Scout on the floor, absorbed in something only they understand.

In the kitchen, Jo moves slowly, deliberately.
She butters toast.
Cuts fruit.
Lunchboxes already sit on the counter — packed, lids closed.

There’s no rush in her movements.
Just momentum.

She pauses once, resting her hand on the counter, rubbing her lower back — not dramatic. Habit.

Link appears in the kitchen, hair rumpled, still half-asleep.

He stops when he takes it in.
The kids awake.
Breakfast nearly ready.
Lunches packed.
He’s missed the start of the day.

LINK
Hey.

Jo turns, offers him a small smile.

JO
Morning sleepy-head.

He steps closer, kisses her.

Then, softer:

LINK
I crashed out.
I didn’t hear them.

JO
Yeah, I saw that.

LINK
What time did they get up?

JO
6:15.

LINK
You could’ve woken me.

JO
(shrugging gently)
It’s alright.
I was awake anyway.

She turns back to the counter, finishes slicing an apple.

Link watches her for a beat longer than necessary.

LINK
You already packed lunches.

JO
Yeah.
It’s all ready.

She slides a plate toward the edge of the counter.

JO (CONT’D)
Can you handle breakfast and help them get dressed?
I’d like to take a hot shower, my back’s been killing me.

Not stressed.
Just stating a fact.

LINK
Of course.

He moves toward the living room — then hesitates.

LINK (CONT’D)
I’ll come with you today. 
I’ll try to catch up with Owen — just to see if he can clear me for consult.

Jo looks at him, surprised — not resistant.

JO
Okay.

Link heads to the kids.

LINK
Come on, guys.
Breakfast.

Jo exhales — slow, controlled.
Jo leans against the counter, eyes closed for just a second too long.

Link clocks it when he comes back.
He steps closer, quiet.

LINK
Jo.

She opens her eyes.

JO
I’m fine.

It’s automatic.
Link shakes his head slightly — not arguing.

LINK
I know.

A pause.

LINK (CONT’D)
You don’t have to do everything.
I’m here now.

That lands.

Jo looks away, swallowing.

JO
I know.

LINK
Let me help.

He reaches for her hand.

LINK (CONT’D)
And maybe, you should slow down a bit at work.

JO
I have patients that need me and I have to—

LINK
—make sure things don’t fall apart.

He finishes it for her, gently.

A beat.

Jo exhales. Just a little.

JO
I don’t really know how to stop.

LINK
You don’t have to.
Just slow down a bit.

He squeezes her hand.

LINK (CONT’D)
I’ll come with you.
We’ll drop the kids.
Then I’ll steal you for lunch.

A small smile breaks through her fatigue.

JO
You’re very optimistic.

LINK
(smiles)
I’ve been told I can be convincing.
 
That does it.
Jo nods once.

JO
Okay.

Link kisses her temple — careful, steady.
The kids call out from the table.

LUNA (O.S.)
Daddy!
Toast please.

Link smiles.

LINK
Coming!

He looks back at Jo.

LINK (CONT’D)
Go take your shower.
I’ve got this.

She hesitates — then goes upstairs, one hand resting on her belly.

She exhales.

Link watches her up the stairs. 
The kitchen is quiet again.
He moves toward the kids — already stepping in.

FADE OUT.