The next few days passed, and Kyra’s health steadily improved. Her headaches had become less frequent, her energy had returned, and her mood had stabilized. Ryder noticed her color had come back, and she no longer looked as exhausted as she had before.
That morning, Kyra was sleeping soundly, her breaths slow and even. Ryder stood in the doorway, leaning against the frame as he admired her. A gentle smile tugged at his lips as he watched her stir slightly, shifting onto her side and stretching her body like a cat waking from a nap.
His gaze dropped to her midsection, and his breath hitched. Her belly, once flat, now had a subtle curve, rounding out like it was supposed to. The sight sent a rush of emotions through him—joy, awe, and a fierce protective instinct that made his heart pound.
