Chapter 11 - The Heartbeat That Almost Stopped
Three weeks later, Alina woke to pain.
Not severe.
But enough.
Dorian was beside her before she finished saying his name.
At St. Marcel’s, they waited through the longest forty minutes of their lives.
Then the heartbeat appeared.
Strong.
Steady.
Safe.
Alina cried.
Dorian held her hand.
Dr. Hale explained that the pregnancy remained viable but recommended rest and reduced stress.
Outside the hospital, Dorian surprised Alina.
“I’m leaving.”
Her face fell.
“Where?”
“The penthouse.”
“Why?”
“Because you need peace.”
She stared.
He continued.
“I won’t use the baby to keep you married to me.”
The words hurt.
But they were also exactly what she had demanded.
May you like
Choice.
For the first time, Dorian gave it without conditions.
