Page 45 of Impregnated By the Bratva

As the words filled the air around us, I realized that they were true. I would be there. I wanted to be there for her. I wanted her in my life. Then, my thoughts flooded with all the dangers she could end up in, and I felt my shoulders sag.

I intended to let her go back to her life once all of this was over. But now, with the baby, I don’t know if I ever could. She didn’t belong here; she was so innocent, and I didn’t want her to feel trapped. But she was carrying my child.

Glancing at her, I wanted to let her go, but I also wanted her to stay. Everything felt upside down.

“We will have to schedule another visit,” the doctor said as we rose. “There are things we will have to discuss. But it can wait for now.”

I nodded at him as we left his office. Grace moved with me like a ghost. Every step appeared mechanical. She looked like she was in a trance.

I took her hand as we walked back to my truck. Being a perfect gentleman, I opened her door and assisted her in. I felt a slight headache developing as I tried to make sense of the situation. It was almost like I was walking in a dream.

Getting in, I started my truck. Glancing at her as I pulled out of the parking lot, I spoke tenderly. “How are you feeling?” I had to know, as she appeared stiff and distant. She was silent for a long time. The atmosphere felt thick, as if she were angry.

Grace sighed softly before speaking. “If I am being honest, I don’t know.” She turned her head away and stared out the window.

I wondered about everything she had been through since the day I met her. I was glad we met, but wondered if she felt the same. So many things have happened. I would give her some time to think. We can talk about it later.

Pulling in, I stopped close to the door. Jumping out, I sprinted around to her side and opened the door for her. Holding out my hand, I waited for her to take it. I noticed she was shaking a little as she got out. I felt a pang in my heart as my concern for her increased. She had been very quiet and stared out the window all the way back.

She gave me a weak smile, but her eyes told a different story, as tears glistened in them. “Grace, are you okay?” I asked as we walked toward the house. I resolved to ensure she would be fine—that she wouldn’t need or lack anything.

Our eyes met as we got to the door. “I will be,” she answered in a soft tone.

As we entered the house, I spoke again. “Would you like something to eat or drink, maybe?”

Grace shook her head as she replied. “No, not right now. I think I’m just going to lie down.” Taking her arm, I walked with her up the stairs.

We entered the room, and Grace sat down on the edge of the bed. “Grace, I think you might like a relaxing bath. Is it fine if I draw one for you?” I asked, unsure what she was thinking or feeling.

She glanced at me and nodded.

“Okay, then, let me go do that,” I said, walking to the bathroom.

As I filled the tub, I added relaxing herbs and oils to the water. I was worried about her seemingly absent reaction, but I vowed to stay with her tonight. I would sleep in the chair. Just like old times, I thought, heading back to the room.

Coming out of the bathroom, I found Grace standing by the window. “Grace,” I said, walking closer. “I filled the tub for you. There are some oils to assist in relaxing you, but if you don’t mind, I would also like to give you a massage once you’re done.”

She turned and looked at me. Without a word, she walked past me into the bathroom and closed the door.

While she was in the bathroom, I headed down to the kitchen. I knew she said she didn’t want anything, but maybe once she was relaxed, she would be hungry.

I collected a water bottle, juice, fruit, nuts, and chocolates. I didn’t know if she wanted something to eat, but if she did, it would be there.

Entering her bedroom, I pulled the small round table by the window closer to the bed. I had just placed everything down and arranged it when the bathroom door opened.

I stood next to the bed as Grace came out. She looked calmer and more relaxed, which was a good thing. She took off the robe and lay down on her stomach. Sitting down next to her, I started at her shoulders and made my way down to her feet.

My fingers worked tenderly at the knots in her muscles. After a while, I could feel the tension leaving them. Her skin was soft and smooth like silk. I could massage her all day and never get bored.

After the massage, I waited for her to get dressed. Grace opened the covers and got in. I smiled at her as I sat down next to her on the bed. Holding the plate of fruit squares, I brought it up, and I waited for her to eat something.

For a moment, it seemed as if she was starting to relax. I smiled at her, but then noticed her demeanor changing. Her voice was filled with concern as she spoke. “I don’t expect anything from you.”

Feeling confused, I wasn’t sure what she was getting at. “What do you mean?” I asked cautiously.

Grace sighed and took a deep breath before replying. “I don’t expect you to house me or take care of me in any way because of the baby.”

My urge to protect her was strong. I desired to be her hero. Looking at her, our eyes met, and at once, I knew that I loved her. I wanted to spend the rest of my life with her by my side. I sought her in my life, my house, and more than anything, I wanted to make her my wife.

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