Chapter 721
"Just a short nap." Ethan Roscente murmured as he pulled back the covers and drew Vivian Laurent into his embrace.
His arms encircled her waist with infinite care, cradling the precious life growing within her.
The five-month pregnancy bump was unmistakable now.
The moment his palm pressed against her abdomen, he felt a faint flutter.
Fetal movement.
His heartbeat accelerated instantly.
He'd noticed something unusual before, but Vivian had skillfully diverted his attention. How could he have been so oblivious?
Vivian also felt the baby's stirring.
She tensed and tried to push Ethan away. "Don't hold me like this."
Fear gripped her - what if he discovered her secret?
"Hmm?" Ethan's eyes opened, locking onto her face mere inches away.
To him, Vivian's delicate features outshone everything else in this world.
"Then how should I hold you?" His voice was husky with sleep.
"Don't hold me at all." Vivian countered.
Instead of releasing her, Ethan tightened his embrace. "No. This is perfect."
He buried his face in her hair, inhaling her unique floral scent.
Vivian sighed in resignation.
This formidable business titan transformed into an affectionate child whenever they were alone.
Knowing Ethan hadn't rested properly in days, she stopped resisting.
Sleep had been the furthest thing from Ethan's mind.
He'd been mentally listing ways to ensure Vivian ate properly and their baby stayed healthy.
But gradually, exhaustion claimed him.
He dreamed of walking hand-in-hand with Vivian and their child, a picture of domestic bliss.
Vivian thought she'd slept enough.
Yet nestled in Ethan's warmth, she drifted back into slumber without realizing.
Two hours passed before she awoke again.
Ethan remained deep in sleep, his breathing slow and even.
Vivian attempted to extricate herself carefully.
Even unconscious, Ethan's arms held her firmly.
It took considerable effort to slip away without disturbing him.
She adjusted the blankets around Ethan.
The lavish meal on the table held little appeal - she managed only a few bites.
After one last glance at the sleeping man, she tiptoed out.
It was time to check on Theo in the ICU.
She dared not hope for miracles - just that the child's condition wouldn't worsen.