At this pivotal moment, a sharp knock interrupted their intimate moment.
James and Clara's eyes flew open simultaneously, springing apart like startled deer. They glared at each other, chests heaving, as the persistent knocking continued—now accompanied by his grandmother's voice.
"James, Clara, are you asleep?"
James cleared his throat hoarsely. "Ah, not yet."
Scrambling off the bed, he hurried to open the door.
His grandmother thrust a glass of milk into his hands, whispering sternly, "Control yourself, young man! Clara's carrying my great-grandchild—the first trimester requires special care. If anything happens to that baby, I'll have your hide! Make sure she drinks this—she needs to keep her strength up."
Though spoken quietly, every word reached Clara's ears. The scolding, while
