Page 78 of Accidentally Knocked Up By the Bratva

Zara's lips brush against my hand, soft and reassuring. "Always, my love. Always."

Chapter 28 - Zara

Four months later

I wake with a start, my heart racing. For a moment, I'm disoriented, and then it hits me—the realization washing over me like a warm wave. I'm off bed rest. Finally.

"Abram!" I call out, my voice tinged with excitement. "Abram, come here!"

He appears in the doorway, concern etched on his rugged features. "What is it, Solnyshko? Is everything okay?"

I can't contain my grin. "Everything is perfect. I'm free!"

Understanding dawns in his eyes, a rare smile tugging at his lips. "Ah, yes. Doctor's orders. No more bed rest."

I throw off the covers, swinging my legs over the side of the bed. "Help me up?"

Abram's strong hands grip mine, steadying me as I stand. My belly, now a prominent swell, throws off my balance, but I don't care. I'm standing. I'm moving.

"What should we do first?" I ask, practically bouncing on my toes.

He raises an eyebrow. "Slow down, kitten. You've been in bed for months. Let's start small."

I pout, but he's right. "Fine. A walk around the garden, then?"

Abram nods, his arm slipping around my waist. "Whatever you want, Zara. It's your day, after all."

As we step outside, the fresh air fills my lungs. I close my eyes, savoring the moment. "I'd almost forgotten what it feels like to be vertical," I joke.

"Just don't overdo it," Abram warns, his protective instincts kicking in.

I lean into him, my hand finding his. "I won't. I promise."

We walk in comfortable silence, the lush garden a riot of color around us. With each step, I feel more alive, more myself.

"I can't believe you did all this," I murmur, taking in the elaborate decorations adorning the patio.

Fairy lights twinkle overhead, casting a soft glow over the intimate setting. A table for two is set with fine china and crystal and a bouquet of my favorite flowers as the centerpiece.

Abram's lips brush my temple. "You deserve it all, Zara. And more."

As the clock strikes midnight, he leads me to a small table where a decadent chocolate cake awaits, a single candle flickering atop it.

"Make a wish," he whispers, his breath warm against my ear.

I close my eyes, thinking of all I already have—Abram, our baby, this life we're building. What more could I possibly wish for?

But as I blow out the candle, I make a silent prayer for our future, for the family we're creating.

Abram's arms encircle me from behind, his hands resting on my swollen belly. "Happy birthday, my love."

***

The flutter in my belly catches me off guard, as it does every time the baby kicks or moves. I pause, placing my hand over the swell of my abdomen, marveling at the miracle taking shape—just two more months until I meet this tiny being who's already captured my heart.

I gaze at my reflection in the full-length mirror, barely recognizing the woman staring back at me. My frame has softened, curves blossoming in places that were once mildly angular. The swell of my breasts, fuller and heavier, strains against the thin fabric of my nightgown. But it's my belly that draws my attention, round and proud, a perfect dome housing my greatest treasure.

"You've changed me in ways I never imagined," I whisper, tracing the silvery stretch marks that map my skin like constellations.

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