Julia’s POV
The dim lighting of the hotel bar cast a warm, intimate glow over everything, reflecting off the polished wood of the bar and the crystal glasses that lined the shelves. Lilian and I sat side by side, nursing our drinks, the hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses around us creating a comfortable, ambient noise. I swirled the last of my wine in my glass, watching the ruby liquid catch the light.
Lilian leaned back in her chair, her sharp eyes fixed on me. "So," she began, her tone casual but her eyes intense. "What's the deal with Laura? You've got her living in your penthouse now?"
I took a deep breath, feeling the familiar tightness in my chest. Lilian had never been one to mince words. "Yes," I said slowly, choosing my words carefully. "She's carrying our baby, Li
