When I was nearly nine months pregnant, I came down with a severe cold. I resisted taking any medication for the baby’s safety. However, a week passed, and I showed no signs of improvement. Worried about my condition, the nanny secretly informed Ashton.
That night, I felt parched and feverish while I was half–asleep. It was as if I were dying of thirst. As I murmured for water, I never expected someone to actually give me a drink. Sweet, cool water slid down my throat, soothing the discomfort.
As I slowly opened my eyes, I saw Ashton’s silhouette under the dim glow of the bedside lamp.
A wave of vulnerability washed over me, and I threw my arms around him, bursting into tears.
Ashton comforted me in a gentle voice, “Pip, it’s my fault. came too late.”
I continued to sob uncontrollably, refusing to let go.
He patted my back lightly. “You’ve been burning with fever. You can’t keep toughing it out like this. If the baby’s fine but you harm your body, what then?”
His teasing brought a halt to my crying. I punched him weakly and snapped, “You’re the fool! Your whole family are fools!”
Ashton chuckled and pulled me back into his arms.
In the end, I obediently took the fever medicine. With Ashton by my side, I fell into a peaceful sleep.
The next morning, sunlight streamed through the gaps in the curtains, casting a warm glow on Ashton’s sleeping face. My gaze followed the light, tracing his high nose bridge, neat lashes, and thin lips. They formed the perfect side profile.
For a moment, I felt as though I had returned to the days before our divorce, when every morning began with him quietly lying beside me. If only time could stop here forever
I was lost in this comforting thought when Ashton’s phone suddenly rang. Frowning, he opened his eyes and reached for the phone.
The screen clearly displayed the name “Mal“.
In that instant, my heart turned cold.
Ashton glanced at me, and I quickly shut my eyes, pretending to still be asleep.
He got up quietly and stepped out to the balcony to answer the call. “Hello? I’m in Zionsville. I’ll head back once I’m done here. If you’re not feeling well, call Dr. Somner. I can’t treat you even if I return.”
I almost burst out laughing at his dismissive tone.
After ending the call, Ashton came back inside. I faked waking up just as he approached.
He touched my forehead gently. “Still feeling sick?”
I shook my head slightly.
