Isabella’s POV
Asher’s arms suddenly slackened, his hold on me loosening until I was the only one still clinging to the hug. My brows furrowed. Something felt off. Gently, I pulled back, searching his face. His eyes were wide, distant, like he’d seen a ghost.
“Asher, what happened? Are you okay?” My voice wavered with confusion.
He blinked rapidly, then forced a crooked smile. “It’s nothing, Bella. I’m just… so happy about the news that I don’t know how to act.”
I gave him a soft smile, though a knot of unease tightened in my chest. Taking his hand, I guided it to my stomach and held it there.
“I told you I wanted a baby, Asher. And you gave me one.” My voice trembled with joy. “Now I know this child will be protected at all costs, especially because you’re the father.”
But he didn’t
