BELLA'S POV - NEXT MORNING
I wake to sunlight streaming through my windows and the smell of food.
Someone had left a tray outside my door, fresh fruit, toast, scrambled eggs, and ginger tea. Everything I need for the pregnancy nausea that still hit me most mornings.
A note is tucked under the plate in Viktor's sharp handwriting:
Eat. You need your strength. Doctor's appointment at 10 AM for prenatal checkup. I'll be there if you want me. If not, I understand.
- V
I stare at the note for a long moment. This is what earning my trust looks like, the small gestures. Respecting my boundaries and asking instead of demanding.
It is a start.
I eat the breakfast, take my prenatal vitamins, and get ready for the doctor's appointment. At 9:45, there is a knock on my door.
Alexei. "Morning, B
